Hell On Wheels: The Building of the Transcontinental Railroad

About this event

Step back into 1869 with Robert Feeney, who brings history to life in full period attire to recount America’s most ambitious engineering feat. This is the story of the "Great Race"—a high-stakes collision between the Union Pacific and Central Pacific Railroads across unforgiving deserts and mountain peaks. Discover the grueling lives of the Chinese and Irish laborers who defied the odds, and explore the lawless, traveling "Hell on Wheels" towns that trailed the tracks with gambling, grit, and vice. From the dangerous work camps to the triumphant driving of the Golden Spike, this presentation offers a visceral look at the project that stitched a divided nation together. Attendees will also have the rare opportunity to view authentic original railroad artifacts.