Hamilton Meserve
Hamilton Wadsworth “Ham” Meserve (born 12 June 1936) is an American financier, newspaper publisher, historical speaker, and the only son of renowned actress Margaret Hamilton, best known as the Wicked Witch in *The Wizard of Oz*. He has served as a public speaker and guardian of his mother's legacy, frequently appearing at historical societies and preservation events in Maine.
Hamilton Meserve 
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| Born | 12 june 1936 |
| Birthplace | Los Angeles, California, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Financier · Publisher · Civic speaker |
| Known for | Public appearances discussing mother Margaret Hamilton and trustee of Boothbay community heritage |
| Website | https://justfacts.votesmart.org/candidate/biography/103514/hamilton-meserve |
Early life
Meserve was born in Los Angeles during his mother's early career. He grew up largely out of the public eye, raised by his mother after his parents’ marriage ended in divorce. His childhood involved summers spent in Maine along the coast, including on Cape Island, which he and his mother purchased in the early 1960s.
Career and public biography
After a successful career in business and publishing, Ham Meserve became active in community heritage. He served as board president of the historic Harbor Theater in Boothbay, Maine, and regularly presents programs at the Boothbay Region Historical Society. He often shares stories about his mother’s Hollywood career and life in Maine, bridging film history and local memory.
He appeared in the documentary series *Cursed Films* in 2022, credited as “Self – Son of Margaret Hamilton, The Wicked Witch,” recounting his mother’s iconic role and personal life.
Personal life
Meserve and his wife Helen made their home in Southport, Maine, near the family island. He has three children: Chris, Scott, and Margaret, and several grandchildren. The family still owns Cape Island, now often known locally as "Witch Island," originally purchased by Ham and his mother in 1961.
Legacy
Meserve is recognized for preserving the memory of his mother’s cinematic legacy and for his public engagements in small-town Maine, where he combines storytelling, history, and local cultural advocacy. He continues to speak about his mother’s impact, both on film and on Maine’s heritage.
See also
- Margaret Hamilton (actress) - *Cursed Films* TV series - Boothbay Region Historical Society