Description

D. Appleton and Company, 1871. Hardcover, 391 pp. This is an 1871 edition (NOT a facsimile), rebound in library binding. Ex-Library. In acceptable+ condition/ NO dust jacket. Red cloth covered boards with gold lettering on spine. Light bumping to edges and light overall scuffing to covers. Library call numbers faded on spine. Binding tight. Usual library and ex-library markings including stamps, perforation library stamp and card pocket affixed to rear paste-down. Otherwise pages are lightly aged but unmarked. Includes original ads for other D. Appleton books at the front and back of the book and map opposite title page. A firsthand account of the transcontinental railway journey across the United States shortly after the completion of the first transcontinental railroad in 1869. Rae, a British journalist, embarked on a journey from New York to San Francisco, detailing his observations on the development and influence of the railway on American society and the vast Western landscapes. Rae describes the engineering challenges involved in constructing the railroad and provides a critical look at the efficiency and safety of the train system. Rae aldo examines the railroad's transformative social impact, detailing the rapid development of towns along the rail line, the economic benefits to distant regions, and the diverse passenger experiences on board. A notable part of Rae's journey includes his visit to Salt Lake City, where he observes and comments on the Mormon community. He provides detailed descriptions of Mormon society, including its religious practices, social structure, and governance under Brigham Young, the leader of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.