Russell, Andrew J. (1830-1902) Laying Last Rail
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC04481.05 Author/Creator: Russell, Andrew J. (1830-1902) Place Written: Promontory, Utah Type: Photograph Date: 10 May 1869 Pagination: 1 albumen : b&w ; 34.4 x 43.2 cm. Order a Copy
One group portrait entitled, "Laying Last Rail," taken by Andrew J. Russell. Image is of Union Pacific Railroad officers at the ceremony of the laying of the last rail at Promontory Point, Utah. For more photographs from the Promontory ceremony, see GLC04481.01 - .06.
Absent from this photograph is Thomas C. Durant, Union Pacific's Vice President. Durant remained in his car, nursing a severe headache. Two days earlier, Durant's workmen had surrounded his car and refused to let him move until they received five months' back pay.
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