 Thus, Elgin became the beneficiary of two major rail lines with eight passenger trains daily, adding to Elgin's business as a shipping point for cotton, wool, and livestock.By 1890, Elgin had a population of 1,100 and supported two hotels, a broom factory, two doctors, a dentist, and the "Elgin Courier" newspaper.The next year oil was discovered southeast of town, but the strike was not large.