Help Preserve and Protect This Historic Region

Some Original Cowboys

The west was wild along the California and Nevada border in the late 1880s and Benton Hot Springs was no different.

Horsemen came in from around the range on payday and enjoyed a good meal, a stiff drink and anything else they could find.

The town was populated by fairly peaceful folks, but there was a study jail house for those stepping over the line.

The Famous Hot Springs

Above is a historic picture of the hot springs at Benton. One was described in a 1915 book as issuing water at 135 °F (57 °C)

Benton was once a small mining town with up to 5,000 inhabitants. Many of the original buildings still remain, but the town has never completely died.

In fact it is still rich in ranching and farming and features the Old House and Inn, a popular vacation destination.

Benton to Laws Railroad

In 1883, a railroad line was completed to Benton Station and soon train service was initiated to Laws Station, located several miles east of Bishop Creek.

Benton Hot Springs got its start around 1863 with the discovery of silver in the nearby Blind Springs Hills and along the White Mountains.

One of the oldest surviving towns in Mono County, Benton was once thriving, with up to 5,000 inhabitants.
Who We Are
Historic Benton Hot Springs (HBHS) is a 501© 3 NON PROFIT Corporation, whose mission is to preserve the natural and historical environment and promote the educational, scientific, and conservation values of Benton Hot Springs properties.

Benton Hot Springs is owned by the Bramlette Family Trust. Trustee, Bill Bramlette and wife, Diane Henderson, are committed to actions that preserve and care for the property in perpetuity.

In 2008, as a first step the Bramlette Trust in partnership with the Eastern Sierra Land Trust, permanently protected 900 acres of the property using a conservation easement, which prohibits future subdivision and development. Historic Benton Hot Springs non profit is the Bramlette Trusts’ second step toward the property care and protection.

Our Mission
Historic Benton Hot Springs works with and assists the Bramlette Trust, Mono County, and Eastern Sierra Land Trust with the preservation and restoration of Benton Hot Springs historic, cultural, and natural properties; facilitates community economic development and business partnerships that improve the welfare of citizens and create jobs; and, enhances public use and education of a unique 1,255 acre parcel of private land in the Eastern Sierra.