About

Hamilton was laid out in 1852 by several men in the area, including Samuel Gordon, who furnished a 160-acre tract of land. This land was purchased in 1833 by his father, John, for $150.00.

Artois Hamilton, of Carthage, was also active in the early history of the town.  Mr. Hamilton was thought to hold money bags of considerable size, so the new town was named "Hamilton", in the hope that the honor might induce him to 'shell out'. Other names were presented and discussed, including "Bartlett", 'Rapids City' and 'East Keokuk', but the possible contribution of money was the clear winner in identifying a name for the town.