The Benton Home, a member of the Historic Artists' Homes & Studios program, is significant because it represents the life and accomplishments of Thomas Hart Benton, whose importance to American art cannot be overstated. Preserving the home of one of Missouri’s most noted 20th-century artists offers visitors a chance to get a glimpse into the daily world of the Benton family. Many of the artist’s belongings provide a seldom-seen inside look at such a creative environment. The interpretation of the artist’s life, including its ups and downs, can provide inspiration to the visiting public. Many have undergone the same contemporary experiences of life in 20th-century America, such as living through the Great Depression, surviving wars, and the inherent difficulty of providing for one’s family. While most art museums can exhibit at least one of Thomas Hart Benton’s paintings; it is only here that one can get a better feel for Benton’s personality, lifestyle, and philosophy, surrounded by his personal possessions.