Hamilton was founded in 1867 as part of the first transcontinental railroad. As such, it showed great promise as a regional powerhouse. Over the years it has been often overlooked and underperformed compared to its counterparts on the southern side of the Lakota River. In 1919, Mason College was opened near Hamilton, providing more kindling to Hamilton's potential.
It is worth noting that Hamilton is home to a more diverse population compared to the rest of the region. During the Great Migration many African-Americans followed the Union Pacific Railroad line to call Hamilton home and have shaped the neighborhood. It is quite likely that the unfortunate racism of the era helps to keep Hamilton overlooked for infrastructure projects compared to the more white Florence, Reed Station, or Harrison. However, as Marble Canyon moves into the 1960s, Hamilton's best days likely lie ahead.
February 20, 1867: Hamilton established by the Union Pacific Railroad
1910: CaptCity Post Office opens
1915: A forest fire almost completely destroys Oscar Woods near Hamilton. The business is unlikely to recover and will soon file for bankruptcy.
July 21, 1919: Oscar Mason breaks ground on his plan to build a trade school near Hamilton and incorporating a new town named after his destroyed business in the area, Oscar Woods.
1942-1945: The entire region mobilizes its industries to assist the war effort, with a new local railroad line looping through the region with cargo stations at the airport in Siluria, Reed Station, Hamilton, and Hunter Crossing. Simultaneously, a local passenger rail line loops the region with passenger stations at Harrison, Port Murray, Florence, Pawnee, Reed Station, Jackson, Hamilton, Carsten, and Hunter Crossing.
Notable Citizens
William R. Shirley (1876-1943)
William Shirley II (Business)