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We’re Building a Better Hilton – Together
Keeping Hilton’s Heritage on Track
The Hilton Railway Station has been part of our town’s history since 1888 — a living link to our heritage. Sadly, over time the area fell into neglect, with overgrown vegetation, abandoned assets, vandalism, and crime taking hold. In 2011, concerned residents formed the Hilton Steam Heritage Association (HSHA) to reclaim and restore this historic space when its owners, Transnet, had neither the funds nor the interest to maintain it.
Since then, dedicated volunteers have poured countless hours and resources into transforming the station grounds — cutting back invasive growth, repainting historic locomotives, repairing old wagons, and keeping the property clean and safe. We even employ two staff members to manage the upkeep, trucking in water because there is still no connection on site.
Despite the challenges — including high rental demands and the red tape of dealing with the property’s owners — our passion for preserving this piece of Hilton’s story remains strong. The station is more than just a building; it’s a place of memories, like the photographs we recently received from two sisters whose mother worked here in the 1920s.
Your support can help us keep this heritage alive for future generations. Every donation goes directly towards maintenance, preservation, and ensuring that Hilton’s railway history continues to be a source of pride for our community.