The town of Hilger is named for David Hilger, born in Henderson, Minn. in 1857. He came to Helena when he was 10 with his family in a covered wagon, receiving his education in Helena and working for James Fergus who lived on a ranch near Helena. Later, David Hilger came to Meagher County (now Fergus County) and worked for James Fergus who had moved to Armells. The area around Hilger was mostly open range and the principle users were members of the Moccasin and Black Butte Roundup Association with 12 brands represented. In July 1911 Hilger sold the townsite of Hilger to the Milwaukee Land Company, a division of the Milwaukee Railroad. Then Sept. 2, 1911 the land company held an auction in Lewistown, selling most of the lots. This date is considered to be the birthdate of the town of Hilger, named after David Hilger. (Carol Mossey)
