He passed away in 1878, leaving a significant portion of his wealth to educational and charitable causes. Hopkins was instrumental in the railroad's growth and success. Hopkins also remained a close friend of the men, particularly Huntington who he remained a partner with in their ventures outside of railroading until he passed away (Huntington always considered him the most honest man he ever knew). He became so highly respected he was also known as 'Uncle Mark' and was always given final say on impending projects. This, along with the fact that Hopkins was the oldest of the group, he was highly respected and no plan was executed before he had first reviewed it. There, he partnered with Collis Huntington, Charles Crocker, and Leland Stanford to form the Central Pacific Railroad Company in 1861. Perhaps the least known, and quietest, of the so-called 'Big Four', Hopkins was nonetheless their cornerstone with his impeccable accounting skills and laid back, honest nature.
Born in 1813, he started his career as a grocer before moving to California during the Gold Rush.
Mark Hopkins was an American entrepreneur and a key figure in the development of the Central Pacific Railroad.
