Benton, Arkansas – Benton will temporarily become Arkansas’ seat of government on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, after Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders officially designated the Saline County city as the state’s next Capital for a Day.
The governor issued a proclamation on Monday, October 26, recognizing Benton’s historical significance, cultural heritage, and contributions to Arkansas while inviting senior state government officials to visit the community.
Benton will be the 28th city to receive the designation under Sanders’ Capital for a Day initiative, which brings state government leaders into communities across Arkansas to meet with local officials.
The program is intended to strengthen connections between state and local government by creating opportunities for direct conversations about community priorities and local concerns.
Located along the eastern bank of the Saline River, just outside Little Rock, Benton serves as the county seat of Saline County and has a history dating back to its incorporation on March 15, 1836.
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The governor’s proclamation highlighted several important chapters in the city’s development, including its role during the Civil War.
In 1863, after Union forces captured Little Rock, troops moved south toward Benton, where they constructed Fort Bussey.
The document also recognized the city’s connection to Arkansas’ pottery industry during the 20th century.
Benton became known for Niloak Pottery, which was produced using distinctive clay found in the surrounding region. Examples of the locally produced ceramics are preserved at the Gann Museum, offering visitors a connection to the community’s manufacturing history.
Another historical figure mentioned in the proclamation was Air Force Captain Ewell Ross McCright, a Benton native who was held in a German prison camp during World War II.
While imprisoned, McCright recorded notes on cigarette paper that were later used during the Nuremberg Trials following the war.
These historical references illustrate the city’s connections to events extending beyond Arkansas.
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Benton has also served as a filming location for notable American movies.
The governor’s announcement noted that the 1973 action film White Lightning, starring Burt Reynolds, was filmed in Benton. Portions of the 1996 movie Sling Blade, featuring Arkansas-born actor Billy Bob Thornton, were also filmed in the city.
Today, Benton offers a variety of cultural and community activities that reflect its history and local traditions.
Residents and visitors can attend performances at the historic Royal Theatre, participate in the annual Old Fashioned Day celebration on the Saline County Courthouse lawn, or follow the longstanding Salt Bowl football rivalry between Benton and neighboring Bryant.
The Capital for a Day designation places a statewide spotlight on these local attractions while recognizing Benton’s role in the region.
Although the designation is temporary and ceremonial, it provides an opportunity for state officials to engage directly with community representatives outside the usual government setting in Little Rock.
Governor Sanders’ proclamation formally names Benton as Arkansas’ Capital for a Day on October 28 and invites senior state officials to participate in the visit.
The announcement was signed on October 26, 2026, and issued with the Great Seal of the State of Arkansas.
Additional information is available in the official announcement from the Arkansas Governor’s Office.
