#96 James J. Hill (Empire Builder of the Northwest)

Like most dynamic individuals of any generation, James J. Hill displayed what Alan Nevins once called a sort of lunar dualism. His positive traits were quite remarkable. A quick intelligence, a power of analysis. An incredible power of will and personality. and an unparalleled work ethic and commitment.

His negative attributes were mirror images of the positive. An extreme irrascibility that sometimes exploded into rage. A willfulness that could turn into outright ruthlessness. and such a preoccupation with the purpose at hand that he sometimes lost sight of the broader perspective. What does one conclude in the final analysis about this remarkable man?

It is entirely appropriate that the passenger train from Chicago to Seattle is called the Empire Builder in his memory. For his hand reached into every aspect of building the regional economy and social order. From transportation to agriculture, mining, lumbering, maritime trade, And town and city building. His larger than life stature is well attested by the persistence of

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