Transcontinental Railroad and it's impact on the growth of the West.

Comstock Lode

Jun 13, 1859

Due to the discovery of silver in Neveda, several prospectors headed out west again. This discover restarted the mining boom of the gold rush.

Ideal Route

Jul 13, 1860

An engineer by the name of Theodore Judah surveys what he thinks will be the perfect route for the new railroad.

Investors

Nov 13, 1860

Judah brings in some possible investors, after reviewing the plan the agree and establish themselves as the first directors of the railroad.

Railroads Bill

Jul 1, 1862

President Lincoln signs for the authorization of the railroad to be built. This bill stated that the railroad was allowed 6,400 acres of land and the government would provide $48,000 bonds for each acre built.

Ground Breaking

Jan 8, 1863

In Sacremento, CA the ground breaking ceremony for the railroad is held. The new govenor of California, Leland Stanford (also a member of the directors in charge of the railroad) performed the ceremony.

Workers

Jan 13, 1865

The contractor of the railroad decides to employ chinease workers.

Veterans look for work

Apr 9, 1865

After the end of the war many veterans travel west looking for work, which many found on the railroad.

Break!

Nov 13, 1866

The railroad halted progress for the winter, this resulted in the establishement of saloons and other drinking places out west. These type places established were where most of the workers spent their time during the winter.

Strike

Jun 25, 1867

Chinease workers go on strike for better pay and better hours. The men got neither but returned to work.

First Train Ride

Jun 18, 1868

The first passenger car travels over the railroad