Benito, Manitoba, an unincorporated urban community in the Municipality of Swan Valley West, Canada, is a hidden gem nestled in the Swan River Valley. Located 37 km southwest of Swan River, 475 km northwest of Winnipeg, and just 2 km east of the Saskatchewan border, Benito offers a unique blend of history, agriculture, and natural beauty.
The history of Benito, Manitoba dates back to the early 20th century when settlers from Eastern Canada, England, and Europe first arrived. The community began to grow slowly after the Canadian National Railway was established in 1905. Benito was officially incorporated as a village in 1941.
In a humorous twist, Benito was featured in an April Fool's Day joke across the Province of Manitoba on 1 April 2013. The CJ Radio Network announced that Benito had joined Saskatchewan as a protest against forced municipal amalgamation. The former village office staff played along with the prank, informing callers that they were now known as Benito, Saskatchewan.
On 1 January 2015, the Village of Benito and the Rural Municipality of Swan River amalgamated to form the Municipality of Swan Valley West.
According to the 2021 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada, Benito, Manitoba had a population of 360 living in 181 of its 215 total private dwellings. This represented a slight decrease of -2.7% from its 2016 population of 370. With a land area of 0.85 km2, Benito had a population density of 423.5/km2 in 2021.
Benito, Manitoba is served by PTH 83, providing easy access for residents and visitors alike.
Benito, Manitoba is home to a branch of the North-West Regional Library of nearby Swan River. Founded in 1965, the North-West Regional Library Benito Branch offers over 14,000 books, DVDs, puzzles, and other items accessible to the public. It also provides many other services, making it a valuable resource for the community.
In addition to its rich history and community resources, Benito is surrounded by natural beauty. To the south lies Duck Mountain Provincial Park and Forest, while Thunder Hill is to the north. Further north of Swan River is Porcupine Mountain Provincial Park, offering ample opportunities for outdoor exploration and adventure.
The economy of Benito, Manitoba is largely based on agriculture and logging, reflecting its rich farming sector. This rural community continues to thrive, offering a peaceful and productive lifestyle for its residents.
