Bonfield is a small village located in Kankakee County, Illinois. The village lies on the eastern side of the Kankakee River, about 20 miles south of Kankakee. Bonfield is bordered by Momence to the north, Grant Park to the east, and Bourbonnais to the south.
The village has an area of 2.94 square miles and is mostly flat terrain with no major hills or mountains. The topography is dominated by prairies and woodlands with some wetlands in low-lying areas along the riverbanks. There are also several small creeks that flow through Bonfield which provide habitat for wildlife such as waterfowl, beavers, muskrats, and other animals.
The climate in Bonfield is typical of that found in northern Illinois with cold winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from lows in the teens during winter months to highs near 90 degrees Fahrenheit during summer months. Precipitation levels are fairly consistent year round with April being the wettest month on average while July and August tend to be drier than other months of the year.
Bonfield’s economy is largely based on agriculture with corn, soybeans, wheat and hay being among its primary crops. Livestock production also plays an important role in local agriculture with dairy cows being particularly common throughout the region. Other industries include manufacturing operations related to plastics, electronics and auto parts as well as some retail businesses located in Bonfield’s downtown area.
The village has a population of just over 1,000 people according to 2019 estimates making it one of Kankakee County’s smallest townships. Residents enjoy a small-town atmosphere where everyone knows each other while still having access to nearby urban centers such as Chicago which is only about an hour away by car or train from Bonfield’s closest Amtrak station at Kankakee Station Road & Walnut Street.
History of Bonfield, Illinois
Bonfield, Illinois was first settled in 1859 by Elias Bonfield, who gave his name to the small village. It was originally a farming community, with many of the local residents growing corn and wheat on their land. The town grew slowly but steadily through the years with additional businesses including a general store, blacksmith shop and school. In 1888 the Illinois Central Railroad ran a line through town, further increasing its population as more people moved to take advantage of the new transportation opportunities. By 1900 Bonfield had grown to a population of over 400 people and had become an established part of Kankakee County.
In recent years, Bonfield has become known for its annual festival known as “Bonfest” which is held in mid-July each year and features activities such as parades, music concerts, car shows and other entertainment. The festival has become popular throughout the region with many visitors coming from out of town to attend each year. Additionally, Bonfield is home to several small businesses including restaurants, cafes and shops that cater to the growing tourism industry in the area. With its friendly atmosphere and wide range of amenities available, it is no wonder why so many choose to visit or even live in Bonfield each year.
Economy of Bonfield, Illinois
According to iamaccepted, Bonfield, Illinois is a small town located in Kankakee County and is home to a diverse economy. The town’s primary economic sector is agriculture with many of the local farmers growing corn and wheat on their land. Additionally, there are several small businesses located in Bonfield that cater to the growing tourism industry. These include restaurants, cafes and shops that offer a variety of goods and services to visitors and locals alike.
The town also benefits from its close proximity to larger cities such as Chicago, which provides access to a range of job opportunities for those looking to relocate or commute into the city. Additionally, Bonfield is home to several manufacturing companies that produce products ranging from furniture to medical equipment. This provides additional employment opportunities for those living in the area and helps support the local economy.
The annual festival known as “Bonfest” has become popular throughout the region and provides an additional boost to the local economy each year with increased tourism spending on food, drinks, merchandise and lodging. Additionally, many visitors come for the beautiful scenery that can be found throughout Bonfield as well as nearby attractions such as historical sites and outdoor activities like fishing or hiking.
Bonfield is an economically diverse town with a variety of industries providing employment opportunities for its residents. With its friendly atmosphere and wide range of amenities available, it is no wonder why so many choose to visit or even live in Bonfield each year.
Politics in Bonfield, Illinois
Bonfield, Illinois is a small town located in Kankakee County that is home to a diverse political landscape. The town is served by the Bonfield Village Board of Trustees, which consists of six elected officials who are responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the village. Additionally, Bonfield is part of the Kankakee County Board, which consists of twenty-six members that are elected from each county district.
The Kankakee County Board meets regularly to discuss issues related to local government and make important decisions about the county’s budget and other matters. Additionally, representatives from Bonfield are often invited to participate in these meetings as well as other regional events such as job fairs and economic development initiatives.
The residents of Bonfield have traditionally leaned towards conservative politics with many supporting Republican candidates in local and national elections. However, there is also a growing progressive movement within the town with an increasing number of residents voting for Democratic candidates in recent years.
In addition to electing representatives at the state and federal level, Bonfield also has its own mayor who serves as its chief executive officer and is responsible for carrying out the laws enacted by its board of trustees. The mayor works closely with local business owners, community leaders, and other stakeholders in order to ensure that all citizens have access to quality services and resources they need to thrive.
Bonfield has a strong political system with a variety of voices represented at both local and regional levels. From progressive activists to conservative voters, all views are welcomed in this small but vibrant community.
