Zebulon Howell Benton

Zebulon Howell Benton
Known for his expensive and usually unsuccessful business ventures in the area financed by his wife; Caroline Christina (daughter of Joseph Bonaparte by his American 'wife', Annette Savage).

Zebulon Benton was a native of Oxbow and son of the well-known Dr. Abner Benton as well as being considered a favorite of Joseph Bonaparte's while growing up. Later he became a commander during the Civil War. It was said that he liked to be called "Colonel" even after the war, and was well-known as wearing a Napoleonic type of hat turned sideways.

He started a bank in Watertown and re-fired the iron furnace at Alpina, the iron furnace was unsuccessful and bankrupted both he and the bank that he had started.

Staying with his venture he lived in Alpina for some time, though Caroline left and lived elsewhere in the area teaching French and piano and other cultured pursuits.

Zebulon and Caroline also lived in his father's home; the Abner Benton House in Oxbow, up until the 1890's.

He died at age 83, mid-May of 1983.

Alpina

Abner Benton House