Tag Archives: Transcontinental Railroad

The History of the Union Pacific Big Boy: The World’s Largest Steam Locomotive

The transcontinental railroad was considered the Eighth Wonder of the World, as it was one of America’s greatest achievements at the time, and still holds the title to this day. The completion of a railroad that wedded the East and … Continue reading

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Railroad Romance and Reality: Unpacking the Legacy of Railways in America

Documents and photographs found in the American Heritage Center’s collections can be used to explore the ways in which railways have been and are perceived in American society. Examples of these are in an AHC virtual exhibit titled “The Art … Continue reading

Posted in Economic History, exhibits, Railroad History, Toppan Rare Books Library, Transportation history, Uncategorized, Western history | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Your Loving Frank: Romance on the Transcontinental Railroad

It might surprise you to find romance amid the story of the back-breaking and dangerous labor involved in building the transcontinental railroad. But we have one for you. We’re commemorating the anniversary of the joining of the Central Pacific and … Continue reading

Posted in 19th century, Biography and profiles, Railroad History, Uncategorized, Western history, Westward migration, women's history, Wyoming history | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Ames Monument Named National Historic Landmark

The Ames Monument, located about 20 miles east of Laramie off Interstate 80, is one of 10 newly-designated national historic landmarks announced November 2 by U.S. Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell and National Park Service Director Jonathan B. Jarvis. Continue reading

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Hell on Wheels

The AHC houses several collections related to the  construction of the transcontinental railroad, westward migration, and even “hell on wheels,” which is the term used to describe the transient collection of unsavory businesses (gambling houses, saloons, brothels) and people that … Continue reading

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