Joseph W. Benston is listed on the 1900 through 1930 Census in Freeport IL as a Merchant, Cigar Jober and Cigar Salesman. Joseph W. Benston and Jena Kincaid were married in Winnebago County IL on 24 Feb 1898. The Census shows Joseph born in November 1864 in Wisconsin, his parents are from Scotland & Ireland respectively. Further research tells us that his parents were Adam & Grace (Gullion) Benston who were married 31 January 1832 in Scotland. This was Adams 2nd marriage, his first being to Jane Jean Begg 25 February 1823 also in Scotland. Jena was born February 1869 a native of IL as are her parents. In 1900 they are the parents of one daughter named Ruth born in August 1899.

The 1910 Census does not have Ruth listed, but there is another daughter named Francis born in 1904. In 1920 Joseph is listed as a widower in the 4th Ward, 13th District and Francis is 16. The last census of 1930 indicates Joseph living on Van Buren Street, he has remarried to Laura (her 1st marriage) and Francis is probably married as she is no longer in the household, his lifelong occupation is still Wholesale Cigars.

In the Freeport Journal 2 July 1938 there is personal ad - "Stephenson W. 1203, W.C. Jenks property for sale to close estate of J.W. Benston, adm., or inquire 1203 W. Stephenson."

January 9, 1940 Freeport Journal had this announcement - "Joseph W. Benston to Anna Albertus et al administrators deed Lot 1 Block 1 Lincoln Blvd. subdivison Freeport.