HIST 14 - The Race of the Century: Building the Transcontinental Railroad
Course Description
America began its rise to industrial dominance in the Gilded Age. A nation with seemingly unlimited natural resources, enterprising individuals with boundless enthusiasm, and unbridled invention led to the industrial and transportation revolution that transformed America between 1870 and 1900. Central to its expansive growth was the construction of the first transcontinental railroad. Called “the work of giants,” its construction was an engineering marvel that forever altered the landscape.
Discover the incredible story of thousands of workers who, for just over a dollar a day, carved through granite mountains, crossed rivers and deserts, and laid tracks across challenging terrains. Learn about the epic race between the Union Pacific and the Central Pacific railroads to reach Promontory Point in 1869 and drive the golden spike!
Join us at the Museum of the American Railroad to explore this remarkable chapter in history. Our tour showcases an impressive collection of steam locomotives, including the world's largest, weighing over 1.2 million pounds. Stretching over 130 feet long and boasting 24 wheels, this steel leviathan exemplifies the pinnacle of steam technology.
Student Limit: 20 This course involves walking over uneven surfaces. Wear comfortable shoes. Limited wheelchair accessibility-please contact Museum for accommodations.
Melissa Johnson is a full-time faculty member of the History Department at Collin College. Melissa earned her B.C. and M.A. from Texas Woman’s University, specializing in 19th Century American and Industrial history. She worked for the Museum of the American Railroad for many years, where she first began researching the Pullman Company.
Michael Bracken is a retired advertising executive who serves as a volunteer docent at the Museum of the American Railroad. His interest in the museum resulted from attending this very same SAIL class last year. Since that time, he has served as an integral member of the museum’s on-going education program with the Frisco Independent School District.