Nels Hultberg acquired approximately 35,000 acres just south of Turlock and in 1902 founded the colony, naming it after his oldest son, Hilmar.  Hultberg wrote ??my dream was to establish the largest Swedish Colony in the State and possibly in the United States.?  Hultberg advertised throughout the Midwest and soon settlers began arriving spurred by promises of cheap land, mild weather, and ample water for irrigation.
Agriculture formed the foundation for Hilmar and through the years it has remained the economic engine of the area.  Dairy, poultry, egg, and almond production continue to be the leading agricultural commodities.