Hilmar, California facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Hilmar, California
Hilmar-Irwin
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Hilmar Cheese Company's Visitor Center in Hilmar, California.
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 Hilmar, California
Location in California
Hilmar, California
Location in the United States
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| Country | United States |
| State | California |
| County | Merced County |
| Area | |
| • Total | 3.900 sq mi (10.101 km2) |
| Elevation | 92 ft (28.0 m) |
| Population
(2020)
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| • Total | 5,164 |
| ZIP code |
95324
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| Area code(s) | 209 |
Hilmar is a small community in Merced County, California, United States. It's not officially a city, but an unincorporated community. This means it's a town that doesn't have its own local government, but is part of the larger county.
Hilmar is located about 4.25 miles (6.84 km) west-southwest of another town called Delhi. It covers an area of about 3.9 square miles (10.1 square kilometers) and sits 92 feet (28 meters) above sea level. In 2020, Hilmar and a nearby community, Irwin, were counted together. Their combined population was 5,164 people.
Contents
Hilmar's History and Beginnings
Hilmar started as a new home for Swedish immigrants. These early settlers arrived as far back as 1906. The first post office in Hilmar opened its doors in 1920, helping the community grow and connect with the outside world.
The Hilmar Cheese Company
One of the most famous businesses in Hilmar is the Hilmar Cheese Company. It was started in 1984 and began making cheese in 1985. This company has become a very important part of the local economy.
Local Sayings About Hilmar
People who live in Hilmar often describe their area as "Country Living at Its Best." This shows how much they enjoy the peaceful, rural lifestyle. For those living outside the community, Hilmar is sometimes called "100 Miles to Anywhere." This phrase highlights its somewhat remote location.
Education in Hilmar
Hilmar has five schools that serve its students. These schools help young people from elementary grades all the way through high school.
- Elim Elementary
- Merquin Elementary
- Hilmar Middle School
- Hilmar High School
- Irwin Continuation School
Portuguese Culture in Hilmar
Hilmar is special because it has one of the largest communities of Portuguese-American people in the United States, based on the percentage of its population. This strong cultural connection is celebrated in many ways.
Portuguese Traditions and Language
To support its Portuguese population, Hilmar has a Portuguese bakery where you can find traditional treats. There's also a fish market that offers foods popular in Portuguese cuisine. At Hilmar High School, students can join a Portuguese club called S.E.C.A. The school also teaches the Portuguese language, helping to keep the culture alive for younger generations.
Hilmar's Railway Past
Hilmar was once the very last stop on the Tidewater Southern Railway line. This railway was important for transporting goods and people. The line that ended in Hilmar was considered the main route for the railroad. There were even plans to extend it further south towards cities like Fresno or Bakersfield until the mid-1930s. However, the railway line into Hilmar was eventually closed down in the late 1950s.
