Like many, my first introduction to the work of George Hilton was “The Electric Interurban Railways in America” - magisterially comprehensive in its scope. I later acquired other works from his remarkably diverse opus, and corresponded with him after the appearance of “American Narrow Gauge Railroads” - which did for the ng what “Interurbans” had done for the electric lines, but with vastly more extensive illustration. Not only could he deal with technical subject matter with clarity and insight, but he also wrote the most beautiful English. One read his material at least twice, once to take in the information, and then again to simply enjoy the way in which he conveyed that information. I would agree with other respondents that he was indeed gifted, but also, judging from my long-range contact, also approachable and generous in sharing his learning.
I was fortunate enough to have him as a college professor at UCLA. Amazing guy, although I didn’t realize at the time how amazing he was. My condolences to his family. RIP.