Hill Farm Historical Society

The Hill Farm Historical Society is devoted to preserving the legacy of innovation begun by James J Hill on his farm located in North Oaks, Minnesota.  Our Mission is to share the rich and unique history of James J Hill through preservation of the Hill Farm National Historic Site and to tell the story about the significant impact he had on American life not only in the Midwest, but across the country.  This includes the role the farm played in the development of agriculture and Hill's Great Northern Railroad from Minnesota to the Pacific Northwest. 

In 1883, railroad industrialist James J. Hill purchased 3,300 acres encompassing what is today the city of North Oaks.  Hill used his North Oaks Farm to produce advances in cattle raising and other agricultural practices to complement his burgeoning Great Northern Railroad.  

Today, the Hill Farm Historical Society (HFHS) preserves Hill's legacy of innovation on over five acres that includes the dairy building, blacksmith shop, and the signature "red barn," which served as the granary. There are three ways to help our cause. One is to make a donation to our general fund through the donation button above; become a HFHS member and/or donate at any level. All proceeds donated to our general fund go toward maintenance of the buildings/grounds, creating displays to tell the story of the innovative agricultural practices developed during Hill's life, promote/develop video presentations or live seminars about James J Hill, and describe what life was like on the farm in his day. The Farm buildings are on the National Register of Historic Places. Guided tours for the public are available by appointment and can be found on our website during the touring season (April-October) or can be arranged by contacting us through our website.

The second way to help our organization is to go to our fundraising campaign page by clicking the link below to help us "Restore The Farm 2024!".  Our buildings are in need of new roofs, dormers and restoration of structural components.  The last time any significant work was done on our buildings was over thirty years ago.  Read about our restoration project at the link below and help us preserve Minnesota history.

It is important to note that 100% of the funds that reach us will go toward what the funds are intended to help us with... be it our programs, educational materials, property maintenance or RESTORATION.  HFHS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization operated by a volunteer Board of Directors.  We have no admin fees, stipends or salary structure.  If you are interested in avoiding processing fees incurred through the convenience of using a credit card with our transaction agents, a check for the amount of your donation can be made payable to "Hill Farm Historical Society" and mailed to us at 35 Hill Farm Circle, North Oaks, MN  55127.  Please include either "General Fund" or "RESTORE THE FARM 2024!" on the memo line of your check.

Finally, the third way to help us is to become a Volunteer.  We rely on volunteers to help us with our programs throughout the year.  Learn about us on our website at the link above and then contact us at the link above and let us know you want to be a part of the James J Hill Legacy.  We welcome your involvement and suggestions!

The James J Hill Legacy

Learn, Donate, Volunteer