Teddy Hangs Out in Benton!

On Friday, I traveled with Lenzi to Benton, IL!  I had lots of fun learning about the history associated with the area, but before we could do that, I had to help Lenzi with something.

We woke up at the crack of dawn and had to go to Marion to take one of Lenzi's content tests.  I was really nervous (I've never taken a test before, but don't tell Lenzi that)!  It was really quiet in the building and they almost didn't let me in because I'm a dog.  The test was hard, but I'm really smart and helped Lenzi.

I needed a Coke once that was over, so we made a quick stop and we were on our way!  Neither me or Lenzi had been to Benton before, so it was a new trip for us.  We traveled north on I-57 until we got to the exit for Benton.  Just about a mile into town, stands the Franklin County Jail and that was where we were headed.

Charlie Birger, born Shachna Itzik Birger in Russia, immigrated to the United States with his parents.  After serving in the military, he settled near Harrisburg.  It was there that he started a ring of prostitution, gambling, and bootlegging.  During Birger's time as a businessman, he formed an alliance with the Shelton Brothers in order to expand his operations.  During this time, Birger managed to remain blameless for numerous crimes and murders he orchestrated.  However, Birger had a falling out with the Shelton Brothers in 1926, so when he ordered a man to kill the mayor of West City, his cover was revealed.  Thinking his trial would be held in Williamson County, a place in which he had much police and political control, Birger was not worried.  However, his trial was moved to Franklin county.  Birger was sentenced to death, whereas the actual murderers were only ordered life in prison.  It took the jury only 12 minutes to decide Birger's fate.  On April 19, 1928, thousands of people gathered to see Charles Birger hanged.  He was the last man publicly executed by hanging in Illinois.

I couldn't believe my ears when Lenzi was telling me this!  This much history was practically in my backyard? I always thought Southern Illinois was a pretty boring place.  Lenzi taught me otherwise, and best of all, I had fun in the process!

Miles traveled: 69.2 miles
Coordinates: 38.0042 N, 88.9161 W
Teddy's Total Miles Traveled: 5153.62 miles