In celebration of the 150th anniversary of the Pacific Railroad Act of 1862 that authorized the transcontinental railroad, the California State Railroad Museum will unveil a new exhibit documenting the history of the Union Pacific, beginning with Abraham Lincoln's initial support of the national project and its construction, through wars, disasters and expansion up to the present.
On display will be photos, maps, artifacts and memorabilia, including: a souvenir gold album locket containing a picture of Lincoln during his presidential campaign; railroad advertising, posters and marketing materials; large "drum-head" signs that once "brought up the rear" of famous passenger trains; photos of railroad workers building the Transcontinental Railroad; and the iconic Union Pacific logo as it changed over time.
In addition to the debut of the exhibit Union Pacific is hosting a two-day celebration this weekend in Old Sacramento. Visitors will be treated to a tour of the "Living Legend" No. 844 steam locomotive and a chance to see the vintage 1960s Promontory baggage car and other historic passenger cars and equipment. Plus there will be free rides on the Sacramento Southern excursion train and UP's 956 miniature train. And for just this weekend, the Railroad Museum and Sacramento History Museum will offer free admission.
Also check out the UP 150 Anniversary website which includes an extensive timeline, employee stories and historic advertisements.
What: "Building America: Abraham Lincoln, California and the Union Pacific Railroad" Exhibit
Where: California State Railroad Museum, Old Sacramento State Historic Park
When: Sept. 29 through Aug. 2013
Cost: $10 adults; $5 youths ages 6-17; free for children ages 5 and under. Free museum admission on Sept. 29 & 30.
For more info: 916-445-6645 or website
News release for the CSRM exhibit PHOTO CREDIT: C. Everett Johnson's painting of Gen. Grenville Dodge and Abraham Lincoln considering routes for the transcontinental railroad, Aug. 1859.
News release for the Union Pacific celebration
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