Benson High School - Chippewa Yearbook (Benson, MN)

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THE CHIPPEWA 1970 BENSON HIGH SCHOOL During the time when the pre-railroad period was still thriving, hardy pioneers laid the foundations for many communities. Situated on a flat endless prairie of tall grass, dotted by many small lakes was located one such community which attracted several railroad companies. In 1870 the town was plotted by the St. Paul and Pacific Railroad Company and named by the railroad, Benson, in memory of a prominent politician and citizen of Anoka. The year 1870 also saw the organization of Swift county, named in honor of Henry Swift, governor of Minnesota, of which Benson later became the county Because of its location in the midst of one of the richest agricultural sections of Minnesota, Benson was, and still is, mainly an agricultural community. The first de- cade brought many hardships and challenges to the young town such as the smallpox epidemic of 1872, the grasshopper plague of 1876 and the fire of 1880. The community witnessed a considerable amount of development during this period, however, and with the heavy influx of settlers it prospered greatly while at the same time the people ap- peared to have a continuing confidence in its future. As the community grew and prospered, the citizens of Benson gradually became aware of the primary role a sound and energetic educational system would have to play in the life of the community. Thus the first institution of learning was constructed and has been expanded over the years to include two secondary schools, a junior and senior high school and a parochial school. Progress and application in today's fast-moving world have always been of utmost importance in the educational program of Benson, and it is for this reason that its educational system is such a vital asset to the com- munity today. The students of Benson High School see many things in 1970. We see a world moving at a deadening pace, a world filled with strife and a society where technology is be- coming more prevalent each day. But we also see reflections. Reflections a century old which reveal hardy pioneers laying the foundations for a new community. Living, growing, sweating, and dying for the community so that new pioneers might take on the Such is the story as Benson observes its centennial in this year, 1970. We have rec- ognized the pioneers who laid the foundations and the pioneers who carried on the cause. So many people, working together, toward a common goal and knowing the satisfaction of having reached that goal. seat. cause. It is for this reason we wish to recognize our community--past and present. .. .