Lila Bromwell Benton

Lila BentonLila Bromwell Benton was born June 15, 1872, the daughter of James and Sarah Bromwell of Champaign, Illinois. She attended elementary, Junior High and graduated from Champaign Senior High School in 1891. After graduation, she was married to Luster Johnson and to this union was born two daughters, Helen and Marion. Mr. Johnson died in 1917.

Both daughters were graduates of the University of Illinois and pursued professional careers, Marian in teaching and Helen in secretarial work.

In 1918, Lila married Mr. Edward Benton. They both were staunch members of the Salem Baptist Church. She became a member in 1887. Mrs. Benton sang in the choir and served her Church faithfully in many ways. According to Church Records, Mrs. Benton was awarded a Certificate of Recognition for 50 years of service to the Salem Baptist Church in 1937.

 

This Legacy is Yours was a cooperative effort between the National Council of Negro Women, Champaign County Chapter, and the Museum of the Grand Prairie.

A gold star star denotes original charter members of the Champaign County Section of the National Council of Negro Women.

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