When the railroad ushered in one of the most transformative eras in American history, James J. Hill emerged as its unrivaled leader, building an empire across America that played an instrumental role in shaping this country.
The Empire Builder: James J. Hill and the Great Northern Railway is a documentary that tells the story of James J. Hill, a self-made tycoon who created the Great Northern Railway, one of America’s most successful railroads. The film highlights Hill’s visionary leadership, determination, and innovative strategies as he overcame financial and logistical challenges to build a transcontinental railway connecting the U.S. to the Pacific Northwest. Through archival footage and expert insights, the documentary showcases Hill’s lasting impact on American infrastructure and his legacy as a pioneering industrialist.