He was born in Cranston, Rhode Island, on October 3, 1813, to Stephen Knight and Weltham Brayton.

In 1835, he opened a general grocery store near the print works before returning to farming.

After buying out Penniman, Knight continued alone for about four years until 1849 when he sold his grocery business to Jeremiah.

He then purchased from Robert a one-half interest in the Pontiac Mill and Bleachery, and the firm of B.

Benjamin Knight also served as in several political offices, including as a member of the General Assembly and city alderman.