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April 15, 1856 | Broadsides This April 15, 1856 broadside details the benefits of the "New England Colony of Iowa," in the town of Nevin. This community, "consisting of persons from the New England States," has two railroads, a school, a hotel, and, of course, tracts of land and town lots for sale.
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April 5, 1864 | Letter In this letter from April 5, 1864, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing his tiresome travel from Grinnell, Iowa via stage and discusses his coming work.
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April 15, 1864 | Letter In this letter from April 15, 1864, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing the difficult terrain he will survey and notes the potential danger from Indians.
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April 19, 1864 | Letter In this letter from April 19, 1864, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing how the numerous gold-seekers heading west from Omaha make travel difficult and expensive.
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April 28, 1864 | Letter In this letter from April 28, 1864, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing his orders to leave for Atchison, Kansas on the first boat.
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May 3, 1864 | Letter In this letter from May 3, 1864, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing his upcoming trip to Salt Lake City via the Overland Stage. He notes that in Atchison he has seen many runaway slaves from Missouri. This letter also includes Reed's instructions from Peter Dey in the Engineer's Office.
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May 8, 1864 | Letter In this letter from May 8, 1864, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing the difficulty in arranging travel due to the gold-seekers and notes the exceptionally high stage coach fares.
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May 21, 1864 | Letter In this letter from May 21, 1864, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing his travel from Atchison, Kansas to Salt Lake City. He spent thirteen days and nights on the stage coach with nine other passengers and describes the weather and terrain he encountered.
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May 26, 1864 | Letter In this letter from May 26, 1864, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing the pleasant condition of Salt Lake City and its exceptional organization.
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June 7, 1864 | Letter In this letter from June 7, 1864, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing his first few days of work surveying a route for the Union Pacific railroad. He comments on his living quarters, bed, and food.
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June 12, 1864 | Letter In this letter from June 12, 1864, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing his first forty miles of surveying. Reed describes the high prices for various foodstuffs—including $14.00 for 100 pounds of flour—all of which were purchased from Mormons on the trail, by order of Brigham Young.
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June 18, 1864 | Letter In this letter from June 18, 1864, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family detailing the difficulty of the terrain. In three weeks he has only surveyed 24 miles. Reed also notes the pleasant climate, comments on the price of gold, and describes a few of the men in his party.
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June 26, 1864 | Letter In this letter from June 26, 1864, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing his hard work over the previous week. Reed also mentions the recent change in his diet, as he caught two brook trout and another member of the party shot an antelope.
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June 29, 1864 | Letter In this letter from June 29, 1864, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing a strike among his workers. He notes that the men have agreed to keep working until he receives a message from Salt Lake City. Reed again notes the high food prices, though they have plenty to eat.
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July 3, 1864 | Letter In this letter from July 3, 1864, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing his interactions with a small band of Utah Indians and their Chief, Sandpitz. The Indians are friendly, but in Reed's estimation, "are the greatest beggars imaginable." He also notes the progress of his survey, which is over difficult terrain, and expresses his fear that the entire party will strike for higher wages.
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July 24, 1864 | Letter In this letter from July 24, 1864, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family detailing the party's lack of food. He sent a team to Salt Lake City for provisions 8 days before, but they have not returned and the food has run out. Reed again describes his difficulties with workers striking for higher wages and shares plans for his upcoming three-day scouting trip.
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August 2, 1864 | Letter In this letter from August 2, 1864, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing his three-day scouting trip. After his teamsters returned with provisions, Reed left and quickly encountered a barren desert and desolate mountains. He also notes recent Indian activity 80-100 miles northeast of their party.
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August 15, 1864 | Letter In this letter from August 15, 1864, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing his difficulties in surveying the route for the Union Pacific Railroad line, including the high cost of food. He mentions that the party spent four days in country with no drinkable water. Despite these hardships, Reed and his party have finished their first survey and are returning to Salt Lake City.
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August 17, 1864 | Letter In this letter from August 17, 1864, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing new instructions from Union Pacific headquarters in Omaha. He is directed to survey a new line from Utah Lake to the Bear River Valley (Utah).
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September 18, 1864 | Letter In this letter from September 18, 1864, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing his inability to write sooner and his overall good health.
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October 2, 1864 | Letter In this letter from October 2, 1864, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing his time in Salt Lake City following his second survey. He notes that Brigham Young gave him some excellent peaches and that he will head out again for three weeks, then return home.
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October 27, 1864 | Letter In this letter from October 27, 1864, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family noting his new assignment to "go west and explore on horseback the route out of the desert."
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November 17, 1864 | Letter In this letter from December 10, 1864, Peter A. Dey, Chief Engineer for the Union Pacific Railroad, writes to Samuel Reed describing the way in which Reed should prepare his survey report for the Railroad's directors. Dey also mentions that Reed has his full support and that he (Dey) voiced this sentiment to members of the Board.
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November 17, 1864 | Letter In this short letter from November 17, 1864, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing the wind and cold he endured during a 20-day stagecoach ride from Salt Lake City.
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December 24, 1864 | Annual report In this December 24, 1864 report, Samuel B. Reed describes his surveys and explorations of the land from Green River, Utah to Salt Lake City. He gives his recommendations for the route of the Union Pacific Railroad line, including the availability of timber for railroad ties and coal to power the locomotives.
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January 13, 1865 | Letter In this short letter from January 13, 1865, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing his work schedule and informs them that he hopes to head west again before March 1.
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April 20, 1865 | Letter In this letter from April 20, 1865, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing the difficulty of traveling by stagecoach and mentions that he heard the news of President Abraham Lincoln's assassination. Reed notes that their party was the first to inform many people of the President's death. He also describes a memorial service in Omaha, NE.
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May 14, 1865 | Letter In this short letter from May 14, 1865, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing his arrangements to leave Omaha at 8:00 p.m. that evening with two assistants. His bill for the stage is an exorbitant $1,200.
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May 21, 1865 | Letter In this letter from May 21, 1865, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family noting their arrival in Denver after a week-long stagecoach ride. Reed notes the ample evidence of Indian attacks along the route.
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June 4, 1865 | Letter In this letter from June 4, 1865, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing his preparations to start another survey the following morning. Reed outlines his potential route and notes the inexperience of his crew, as most of his previous group found other employment. He also details an upcoming Indian gathering, featuring all of the tribes in the vicinity of Salt Lake and Brigham Young.
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November 1, 1865 | Letter In this letter from November 1, 1865, Samuel Reed writes to Thomas C. Durant, Vice President of the Union Pacific Railroad, describing his work surveying a line from Salt Lake City to the Humboldt River Valley in Nevada.
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December 26, 1865 | Letter In this letter from December 26, 1865, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing his frustration over the lack of directions from his superiors. He also notes that he may be offered the position of Chief Engineer of Construction for the Union Pacific line.
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January 14, 1866 | Letter In this letter from January 14, 1866, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing his busy work finding contractors for construction of the second 100-mile section of the Union Pacific Railroad line. He also describes a compliment given him by an important engineer, who called Reed a "pioneer" of topographical engineering.
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January 17, 1866 | Letter In this letter from January 17, 1866, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing the quietness of the office since the "notables" of the Union Pacific, who had been there observing construction and planning, have "left for the east."
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January 21, 1866 | Letter In this letter from January 21, 1866, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing his work pertaining to the construction of the Union Pacific Railroad. He also notes that he has been named the Superintendent of Construction, so he will not have to go west again on a surveying expedition.
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January 31, 1866 | Annual report In this January 31, 1866 report, Samuel B. Reed describes his surveys and explorations of the land from Salt Lake City, Utah to the California state line. He gives his recommendations for the route of the Union Pacific Railroad and suggests building the line from West to East (rather than from East to West), due to timber availability. He further suggests that subsequent survey crews should use camels, rather than horses or mules, due to the lack of water on a good portion of the route.
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February 11, 1866 | Letter In this letter from February 11, 1866, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family noting that construction on the Union Pacific has reached 56 miles west of Omaha. He states that his work is not "wearing on body and boots," but is "close hard office work."
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March 26, 1866 | Letter In this short letter from March 26, 1866, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family stating that he has completed his survey map and one of his reports and sent them to New York. His report will be submitted to Congress to demonstrate the Union Pacific's progress toward building the first transcontinental railroad line.
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July 18, 1866 | Letter In this letter from July 18, 1866, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing a fierce political fight involving Thomas C. Durant and George Francis Train of the Union Pacific Railroad. Their larger-than-life personalities cause Reed to comment that "one stage coach or steam boat could not hold two such men."
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August 1, 1866 | Letter In this letter from August 1, 1866, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing a recent trip to the west. He explored the country south of the Platte River looking for cedar timbers to use as railroad ties for the Union Pacific road. Reed met Jack Morrow, a wealthy rancher, and purchased $4,000 worth of ties from him.
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August 16, 1866 | Letter In this letter from August 16, 1866, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing the heat and lack of rainfall. Reed notes that no rain has fallen in Omaha for more than six weeks. He also mentions an upcoming party for Lieutenant General Sherman in which Reed has been invited to attend.
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September 23, 1866 | Letter In this letter from September 23, 1866, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing an upcoming visit by Thomas C. Durant, Vice-President of the Union Pacific Railroad. Reed also notes that he plans to go west soon and will be gone for most of the week, which he hopes will be his last trip for the season.
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January 15, 1867 | Letter In this letter from January 15, 1867, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing his desire, but his inability, to go west soon. He mentions that the Union Pacific's directors continue to talk about the possibility of bridging the Missouri River between Omaha and Council Bluffs, but "there has been nothing done yet about settling the question."
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January 17, 1867 | Letter In this letter from January 17, 1867, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing a "stormy meeting" of the Union Pacific Railroad's executive committee. He is fearful that "the progress of the road will be very much retarded" by proposed changes "in the mode of building the road."
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January 22, 1867 | Letter In this letter from January 22, 1867, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing the continuing internal debate over the future of the Union Pacific Railroad.
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January 27, 1867 | Letter In this letter from January 27, 1867, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing the decision of the Union Pacific Railroad's executive committee during their recent meetings. The committee "let" the contract to Credit Moblier from the 100th Meridian "to the base of the mountains." Reed also describes the recent decline of the stock market.
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January 31, 1867 | Letter In this letter from January 27, 1867, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family letting them know that he will leave New York City that evening. He mentions that work on the railroad may not progress as quickly as the previous year because of a "difficulty in procuring the necessary funds to build the road."
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February 13, 1867 | Letter In this letter from February 13, 1867, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family letting them know that he has arrived in Omaha after a long journey from New York City.
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February 26, 1867 | Letter In this letter from February 26, 1867, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family in Illinois describing the recent delay in mail service due to a severe winter storm stopping traffic on the Chicago and Northwestern Railroad.
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March 25, 1867 | Letter In this letter from March 25, 1867, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing the effects of another severe winter storm in Nebraska. He mentions that he has six locomotives on the east side of the frozen Missouri River and "would not hesitate to cross them on the ice if we needed their services."
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March 27, 1867 | Letter In this letter from March 27, 1867, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing the difficulty of clearing the tracks of snow. He expects that the storm will destroy some bridges.
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April 2, 1867 | Letter In this letter from April 2, 1867, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing contracts with Boyd & Reed and I. H. Lacy to construct ten miles of road each. Upon completion of their contracts, the Union Pacific Railroad will reach 400 miles, or 25 miles west of Julesburg, Colorado.
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April 5, 1867 | Letter In this letter from April 5, 1867, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing the expected arrival of Union Pacific Vice-President Thomas Durant. Reed also notes an attempt by a representative of Ames & Company to overhaul the construction department's books and vouchers.
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April 18, 1867 | Letter In this letter from April 18, 1867, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing a trip to the western end of the line. He details his attempts to "put the road in order" following a recent flood of the Platte River and its tributaries. Reed laments that it will cost above $50,000 and be "ten or twelve days before I can get a train over the road."
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April 19, 1867 | Letter In this letter from April 19, 1867, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing the recent flooding on the Platte River and his attempts to get the road repaired by the following week, when the Union Pacific's executive committee will arrive to inspect it.
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April 25, 1867 | Letter In this letter from April 25, 1867, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family with mixed feelings, noting that the first train in ten days has passed over the road, but that a "large amount" of work still needs to be done to get the road in "good order."
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May 4, 1867 | Letter In this letter from May 4, 1867, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family noting the executive committee's pleasure at the condition of the line. Reed mentions that he may be spending most of his future time in North Platte, given the expected arrival of a new general superintendent of construction.
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May 6, 1867 | Letter In this letter from May 6, 1867, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing the unrest among members of the Union Pacific Railroad's executive committee. Following their inspection of the line, they "broke up in a row" and thus, "no work has been let west of the fourth hundred and will not be until they come to some agreement."
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May 8, 1867 | Letter In this letter from May 8, 1867, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family letting them know that he will be relocating to North Platte.
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May 14, 1867 | Letter In this letter from May 14, 1867, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing recent Indian attacks near Julesburg, Nebraska. He also mentions that since the railroad has been completed from Omaha to North Platte, his only concern will be with the new construction to the west. The eastern section will be "the same to me as any foreign road."
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May 23, 1867 | Letter In this letter from May 23, 1867, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing his new office in North Platte, NE. He also mentions the "troublesome" Indian situation, lamenting that the government "does not give us sufficient protection."
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May 27, 1867 | Letter In this letter from May 27, 1867, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing the arrival of the Union Pacific's commissioners and their acceptance of 40 more miles of road. He again notes the Indian troubles, which have become such a hindrance that "unless we get more government protection the work may be suspended."
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July 15, 1867 | Letter In this letter from July 15, 1867, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family telling of a trip into the western mountains. He gives a humorous description of Colonel Silas Seymour who, when mounted, would "hoist his umbrella" and follow the escort near the front of the column.
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July 30, 1867 | Letter In this letter from July 30, 1867, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing his return trip after leaving Chicago, where he was visiting his family. Reed apologizes to his wife for visiting "several" saloons and other "dens of vice and crime" in Julesburg after his return. He gives a detailed account of his activities, which illustrates the availability of such diversions along the western portion of the Union Pacific Railroad.
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August 6, 1867 | Letter In this letter from August 6, 1867, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing various business items regarding Union Pacific Railroad construction. He also mentions that several of the railroad's "best men" have recently died, due to illness or Indian attacks.
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August 31, 1867 | Letter In this letter from August 31, 1867, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing his success in getting bridge timber and noting the extreme heat in Julesburg, which reached 120 degrees in the sun.
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September 7, 1867 | Illustration This image from the September 7, 1867 issue of Harper's Weekly depicts Cheyenne Indians on horseback attacking a party working for the Union Pacific Railroad.
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September 7, 1867 | Illustration This image from the September 7, 1867 issue of Harper's Weekly depicts a group of workmen employed by the Union Pacific Railroad.
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September 19, 1867 | Letter In this letter from September 19, 1867, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing Colonel Silas Seymour's attempt to delay construction of the railroad, in order to "injure someone's reputation." Reed states that he has written to the directors in New York City in support of General Grenville Dodge, who is Col. Seymour's target.
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September 22, 1867 | Letter In this letter from September 22, 1867, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing his desire to resign his position and return home to Chicago. He is sick of the "wild life" and "untold dangers seen and unseen."
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October 2, 1867 | Letter In this letter from October 2, 1867, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family noting that his work is right on schedule, but that no more track can be laid until the New York office sends out more splice joints.
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October 5, 1867 | Letter In this letter from October 5, 1867, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing the upcoming arrival of a delegation of newspaper editors. He hopes that the Indians will give them a scare, as "it may do them some good and afford us some amusement."
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October 21, 1867 | Letter In this letter from October 21, 1867, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing his trip to the mountains with the delegation of newspaper editors, noting that "such a set of ninnies I never saw on the plains." Reed also reflects on the magnitude of the work on the Union Pacific line and suggests that few appreciate the difficulty of their efforts.
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October 23, 1867 | Letter In this letter from October 23, 1867, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing the "big row" being made by Colonel Silas Seymour.
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December 7, 1867 | Illustration This image from the December 7, 1867 issue of Harper's Weekly depicts Chinese laborers working on the Central Pacific Railroad.
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December 7, 1867 | Illustration This image from the December 7, 1862 issue of Harper's Weekly depicts Donner Lake as seen from the Central Pacific Railroad.
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December 7, 1867 | Illustration This image from the December 7, 1867 issue of Harper's Weekly depicts a map of the Pacific Railroad across the western United States from San Francisco, California to Omaha, Nebraska.
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December 7, 1867 | Illustration This image from the December 7, 1867 issue of Harper's Weekly depicts a very large gap in the mountains through which the Central Pacific Railroad runs.
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December 7, 1867 | Illustration This image from the December 7, 1867 issue of Harper's Weekly depicts a train running on the Central Pacific Railroad with a view of California's American River in the distance.
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December 27, 1867 | Letter In this letter from December 27, 1867, Grenville Dodge writes to Samuel Reed, affirming his support for Reed's work. Dodge states that Reed has been blamed for the construction problems in 1867 "when you ought not to be." He also advises Reed to "steer clear of New York complications" during construction in the upcoming season.
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January 11, 1868 | Letter In this letter from January 11, 1868, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family and describes being caught in a severe snow storm. He also notes that "bridge matters are progressing well" and that he has received a letter from Grenville Dodge, in which the General declares his support for Reed.
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January 14, 1868 | Letter In this letter from January 14, 1868, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing the heavy snowfall in the timber-cutting areas, which makes it "impossible to haul much material." Reed hopes that this will not delay the delivery of ties for spring construction of the Union Pacific line.
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January 22, 1868 | Letter In this letter from January 22, 1868, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing the formation and actions of a "vigilance committee" in Cheyenne, Wyoming. This group captured three robbers and hung them without a trial. Reed claims that he "does not uphold such proceedings," but that "in these cases it is the best thing that could be done."
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February 16, 1868 | Letter In this letter from February 16, 1868, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing his preparations for the upcoming building season and his favorable position within the company. He writes that he receives all orders from the company secretary and "no person has any right to dictate to or order me to do this or that." Reed also notes that his salary for the upcoming year will be $10,000 to $12,000.
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March 4, 1868 | Letter In this letter from March 4, 1868, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing his arrival in Cheyenne, Wyoming once again.
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March 14, 1868 | Illustration This image from the March 14, 1868 issue of Harper's Weekly offers a cartoonist's conception of the railroad to the Pacific as the movement of a line of trunks.
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March 15, 1868 | Letter In this letter from March 15, 1868, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing the progress on the construction of the Union Pacific Railroad line.
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April 10, 1868 | Letter In this letter from April 10, 1868, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing the work on the Union Pacific Railroad line. His workers have completed the track to within one mile of the Dale Creek bridge and will have the bridge finished within a week. Reed is quite busy as Sydney Dillon, Thomas C. Durant, and others will arrive to inspect the line next week.
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April 27, 1868 | Letter In this letter from April 27, 1868, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing his frustration over the start of "so much new work" while trying to manage the existing construction.
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May 5, 1868 | Letter In this letter from May 5, 1868, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing an upcoming trip to Fort Saunders, via Salt Lake City.
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May 18, 1868 | Letter In this letter from May 18, 1868, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing his trip to Salt Lake City and his business dealings with Brigham Young. Reed also describes the growing young city and notes that he has purchased a city lot, which he hopes will appreciate quickly.
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May 20, 1868 | Letter In this letter from May 20, 1868, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing his continuing negotiations with Brigham Young.
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May 30, 1868 | Illustration This image from the May 30, 1868 issue of Harper's Weekly depicts a lengthy snow shed on the Central Pacific Railroad.
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May 30, 1868 | Illustration This image from the May 30, 1868 issue of Harper's Weekly depicts surveyors examining Humboldt Pass in the Sierra Mountains of Nevada for the Central Pacific Railroad.
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May 31, 1868 | Letter In this letter from May 31, 1868, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing a trip via horseback to "locate" another section Union Pacific Railroad line.
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June 7, 1868 | Letter In this letter from June 7, 1868, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing his continuing presence in Salt Lake City and his favorable treatment by the Mormons. He also notes that the Central Pacific Railroad's directors are "very much disappointed to learn that we are so far advanced with our end of the work," because that will mean less government land for their company.
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June 12, 1868 | Letter In this letter from June 12, 1868, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing his surveying camp, commenting on the sleeping arrangements and food. Reed also states his intention to resign his position, citing the "jealousy and hard feeling" which has caused him to take no "pleasure in trying to advance the work."
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June 23, 1868 | Letter In this letter from June 23, 1868, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing his actions in regard to resigning his position as Superintendent of Construction for the Union Pacific Railroad.
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June 25, 1868 | Letter In this letter from June 25, 1868, Grenville Dodge writes to Samuel Reed's wife regarding the misunderstanding that led to Mr. Reed's resignation. Dodge promises to "fix the matter" so that Reed will continue to work for the Union Pacific Railroad.
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July 3, 1868 | Letter In this letter from July 3, 1868, a frustrated Samuel B. Reed writes to Sidney Dillon regarding his letter of resignation. Reed describes his displeasure over his recent treatment by high-ranking company officials, but announces that "All I want is to be retained as chief of construction."
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July 6, 1868 | Letter In this letter from July 6, 1868, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing the actions taken in response to his resignation. Sidney Dillon and Oliver Amos wish to retain Reed's services, and have worked to keep Reed as Construction Manager of the Union Pacific. Reed also mentions a workers' strike on the UP line, in which they demand $4 per day. He has sent troops "to enforce the orders and will starve them out unless they go to work."
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July 27, 1868 | Letter In this letter from July 27, 1868, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing his standing in the Union Pacific Railroad Company. Sidney Dillon and Thomas Durant "propose to continue me as General Superintendent of Construction," which Reed considers a satisfying resolution to the issue.
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July 30, 1868 | Letter In this letter from July 30, 1868, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing the continuing negotiations over his position in the company. Reed speculates that he will be "fully sustained and have full power in the construction department."
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July 30, 1868 | Letter In this second letter from July 30, 1868, Samuel Reed updates his wife and family with news that he has been reappointed as General Superintendent and Engineer of Construction. He notes that "Division Superintendents receive orders from me on all matters pertaining to construction." Reed plans to get to business immediately, as "the company is straining every nerve to build as much road as it is in the power of man to do before connecting with the Central Pacific."
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August 14, 1868 | Letter In this letter from August 14, 1868, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family asking Mrs. Reed, who lives in Chicago, to meet Mark L. Seymour, a cousin of Colonel Silas Seymour, and join him on a trip to Reed's headquarters at the end of the Union Pacific line.
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October 31, 1868 | Letter In this letter from October 31, 1868, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing his never-ending work and the arrival of a snow storm while he was camping outside without a tent. Reed complains about the inefficiency of the Division Superintendents, whose incompetency causes him a great deal of extra work.
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November 17, 1868 | Letter In this letter from November 17, 1868, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family updating them on the progress of the Union Pacific line.
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December 3, 1868 | Letter In this letter from December 3, 1868, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing the continuing effort to grade the railroad bed "as rapidly as the frozen ground will admit," but the work is so difficult that "we can not make much progress on light work in the hard frost."
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December 6, 1868 | Letter In this letter from December 6, 1868, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing the difficult grading work still being done. His men work "night and day without cessation" because the work "goes very slowly on account of the hard frozen ground which it is impossible to move without [gun]powder." He places the blame for this difficult work on Thomas Durant, whose interference with Reed's plans caused the work to cost twice as much and take twice as long.
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December 16, 1868 | Letter In this letter from December 16, 1868, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing the progress on grading and decribes the recent weather, which has been clear. Reed again complains about Durant's interference, noting that "this work would all have been finished long ago if my arrangements had not been interfered with."
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December 28, 1868 | Letter In this letter from December 28, 1868, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing the arrival of Thomas Durant. Reed also states his longing to return home.
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January 12, 1869 | Letter In this letter from January 12, 1869, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing Thomas Durant's hindrance to his work and the rising costs of construction.
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January 16, 1869 | Letter In this letter from January 16, 1869, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family giving a detailed description of Thomas Durant's interference with the construction of the Union Pacific Railroad. Reed explains how Durant's decisions, including pulling workers from grading duty before winter came, have "squandered uselessly" an incredible amount of time and money.
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February 10, 1869 | Letter In this letter from February 10, 1869, a weary Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing the extent of his work. Reed has worked so hard for so long that he believes that it "is unfitting me for future usefulness."
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February 18, 1869 | Letter In this letter from February 18, 1869, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing his disappointment in not getting to see his wife as planned. Reed also notes that a large cut west of Weber Canyon has caved in, forcing him to ride out and "devise some plan to rectify it."
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February 27, 1869 | Letter In this letter from February 27, 1869, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing the progress of the Union Pacific Railroad. He notes that workers have laid track past Devil's Gate and that grading is finished for forty miles ahead of that point. Reed is pleased that the work is "moving smoothly," but he is "sick and tired of the hurry and hustle attendant upon so much business." Following Reed's letter is a note from the compiler, giving a flattering, if not entirely accurate, picture of the Union Pacific's construction.
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February 27, 1869 | Illustration This image from the February 27, 1869 issue of Harper's Weekly shows Weber Canon, Utah as seen from the Union Pacific Railroad.
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February 27, 1869 | Illustration This image from the February 27, 1869 issue of Harper's Weekly depicts the terminus of the Union Pacific Railroad at Echo City, Utah.
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May 11, 1869 | Newspaper This account of the "Golden Spike" ceremony at Promontory Point, Utah on May 10, 1869, as printed in the May 11th edition of the Salt Lake Telegram, describes the festivities involved and lists some of the important attendees. Following the article, the compiler offers a one-sided picture of the situation regarding pay for the Union Pacific's construction crews and details Samuel Reed's actions after the ceremony.
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May 29, 1869 | Illustration This image from the May 29, 1869 issue of Harper's Weekly depicts laborers of both European and Asian descent working on the final mile of the Pacific Railroad.
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June 5, 1869 | Illustration This image from the June 5, 1869 issue of Harper's Weekly depicts a large celebratory gathering around the place where the Union Pacific and Central Pacific lines joined at Promontory Summit, Utah.
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June 12, 1869 | Illustration This image from the June 12, 1869 issue of Harper's Weekly presents a satirical look at race and the completion of the Union Pacific railroad.
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August 5, 1869 | Letter In this letter from August 5, 1869, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing his arrival in Boston, which he describes as "a crooked place and full of crooked men, mentally and physically," for a meeting with Union Pacific officials.
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August 7, 1869 | Letter In this letter from August 7, 1869, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing his two-day-long interview with the Union Pacific Board.
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August 14, 1869 | Letter In this letter from August 14, 1869, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing the meetings in Boston. Reed has little to do and longs to "get away from here soon."
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August 16, 1869 | Letter In this letter from August 16, 1869, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family complaining about the slow progress of meetings. He laments that "I could do more business in a single day than the combined wisdom of all the officers of the road in Boston."
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August 17, 1869 | Letter In this letter from August 17, 1869, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing a lawsuit brought by Captain Davis, a tie contractor, against the Union Pacific Railroad. Reed supports Davis, another victim of Thomas Durant's interference during construction.
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August 28, 1869 | Illustration This image from the August 28, 1869 issue of Harper's Weekly depicts a Nebraska prairie fire near the Union Pacific railroad.
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August 28, 1869 | Letter In this letter from August 28, 1869, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family noting that troubles are on the horizon for the Union Pacific. He describes the Railroad's worsening financial position and again expresses his wish to return home.
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August 28, 1869 | Illustration This image from the August 8, 1869 issue of Harper's Weekly shows the city of Omaha, Nebraska from the site of the Old Capitol building.
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August 31, 1869 | Letter In this letter from August 31, 1869, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing "warm times" regarding the Union Pacific Company's various debts. Reed notes obligations to Brigham Young and Captain Davis, but hopes to avoid all of the problems by leaving in the coming days, which he has been promised he could do.
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September 1, 1869 | Letter In this letter from September 1, 1869, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing more Union Pacific meetings. Reed expects to receive payment of $12,000 per year for his service, and he plans to go to New York "as soon as possible" to "settle all my accounts."
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September 11, 1869 | Illustration This image from the September 11, 1869 issue of Harper's Weekly depicts the rail station in Sherman, Wyoming Territory.
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October 16, 1869 | Illustration This image from the October 16, 1869 issue of Harper's Weekly depicts a Central Pacific Railroad passenger train traveling through Ten-Mile Canyon in Nevada. Just months after the driving of the "golden spike," the transcontinental railroad was in operation ferrying passengers through some of the sublime, dramatic landscape of the west.
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October 30, 1869 | Illustration This image from the October 30, 1869 issue of Harper's Weekly depicts the Union Pacific Railroad in Weber Canyon. Just months after the driving of the "golden spike," the transcontinental railroad was in operation ferrying passengers through some of the most sublime, dramatic landscapes of the west.
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November 13, 1869 | Letter In this November 13, 1869 letter, Samuel Reed writes to Brigham Young thanking him for his assistance during the construction of the Union Pacific Railroad.
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December 3, 1869 | Letter In this letter from December 3, 1869, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing affairs in Boston. Reed hopes for a "speedy closing up of my affairs."
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December 6, 1869 | Letter In this letter from December 6, 1869, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family announcing his expectation of settling his accounts within a few days.
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December 9, 1869 | Letter In this December 9, 1869 letter, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing the Company's continuing delay in settling his affairs. He announces an upcoming trip and gives a positive outlook on the Union Pacific's financial situation.
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January 6, 1870 | Letter In this January 6, 1870 letter, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family informing them that it will likely be some time before his accounts are settled and he can return home.
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January 13, 1870 | Letter In this January 13, 1870 letter, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family informing them that it will be at least a week until his accounts are settled. He notes that other accounts are also being reviewed and that the New York office "has largely overpaid some parties."
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January 16, 1870 | Letter In this brief January 16, 1870 letter, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family announcing that Sidney Dillon wants him to go to Texas and survey 200 miles of road.
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January 20, 1870 | Letter In this brief January 20, 1870 letter, a dejected Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family informing them that his accounts are still not settled. He admits that he is "heartily sick and tired of the unbusinesslike way in which I am treated and do not hesitate to let those who are here know the fact."
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January 22, 1870 | Letter In this January 22, 1870 letter, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing an outing to the museum at Harvard College, as he has yet to hear from the Union Pacific Company regarding his accounts.
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January 28, 1870 | Letter In this January 28, 1870 letter, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing his work balancing construction accounts for the Union Pacific Railroad. He states that he "shall get clear of the U.P.R.R. Co. with a clean record as far as money accounts go." Reed continues to wait on his personal account, however.
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January 31, 1870 | Letter In this January 31, 1870 letter, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family announcing that he will close his accounts on February 1st. He boasts that "there are no company books and vouchers in New York or Boston that are in as good shape as the construction accounts I return from the west."
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February 3, 1870 | Letter In this February 3, 1870 letter, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family announcing that his business with the Union Pacific will be settled the following day. He also notes that he knows "the exact cost of the road from Omaha to the end," but does not give the figure. He further states that Sidney Dillon continues to discuss Reed's work on a Texas road, but "I had much rather build one in Illinois if I can make arrangements with Mr. Mitchell."
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February 8, 1870 | Letter In this February 8, 1870 letter, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family from New York, having finished his business in Boston. His personal accounts are not yet settled, but Sidney Dillon has promised him that "they shall be this week and the balance remitted to me at Joliet," Illinois.
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March 19, 1870 | Illustration This image from the March 19, 1870 issue of Harper's Weekly depicts workers and a snow plow attempting to clear a snow drift on the Pacific Railroad.
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April 22, 1871 | Illustration This image from the April 22, 1871 issue of Harper's Weekly depicts the three large piers of the terminus of the Central Pacific Railroad in California.
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February 10, 1872 | Illustration This image from the February 10, 1872 issue of Harper's Weekly depicts snow sheds on the Central Pacific Railroad.
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February 10, 1872 | Illustration This image from the February 10, 1872 issue of Harper's Weekly depicts a snow plow on the Central Pacific Railroad.
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1881 | Book An excerpt from Walt Whitman's Leaves of Grass.
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November 14, 1883 | Broadsides This General Order from November 14, 1883, circulated by S. T. Smith, General Superintendent of the Kansas Division of the Union Pacific Railroad, notifies all stations on the Kansas Division that "standard time" will begin at exactly 9:00 a.m. on Sunday, November 18, 1883. This order coincides with the establishment of time zones throughout the United States, a development necessitated by the speed of railroad travel.
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October 4, 1890 | Broadsides In this October 4, 1890 broadside, the Union Pacific Railroad offers a $200 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the individuals who attempted to derail a train.
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August 21, 1895 | Broadsides In this 1895 broadside, the Pacific Express Company offers a $500 reward for the arrest and conviction of those who robbed Union Pacific train Number 8 on August 21.
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1932 | Map This map from the 1932 Atlas of the Historical Geography of the United States displays the Harriman Railroad System in 1914, including the Union Pacific, Southern Pacific, and Los Angeles, San Pedro, and Salt Lake railroads.
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1932 | Map This map from the 1932 Atlas of the Historical Geography of the United States depicts the vast railroad system James J. Hill owned in 1914.
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1932 | Map This map from the 1932 Atlas of the Historical Geography of the United States displays the United States' railroad lines in 1870 as well as some of the major cities they connected.
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1932 | Map These two maps from the 1932 Atlas of the Historical Geography of the United States depict the extent of western railroads in 1880 and 1930. They illustrate the tremendous growth of the railroad in the western United States during this fifty-year period.
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The Building the Transcontinental Railroad and Expansion across Nebraska a GIS-based map displaying the spread of the railroad across Nebraska.
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In 1857 the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad recorded every employee on the line. Over 6,000 individuals worked for the B & O in a variety of roles. Our database will track these individuals over time and across the railroad network, and in coming months we will add more data from different railroads on slave laborers, Irish, Chinese, and other workers.
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