🚂 The Glory and Grief of Chinese American Railroad Workers 💔🛤️

On May 10, 1869, the last spike drove into the ground, and America’s first Transcontinental Railroad—the Central Pacific Railroad—officially linked at Promontory, Utah. 🌵⚒️ A commemorative plaque still stands there, etched with the phrase: "Ten miles a day, Cutting through mountains and opening up roads, spreading out for ten li a day (Chopping through mountains, paving ten li daily), The divine power of the Chinese axe will be remembered for a thousand years. (Chinese laborers’ skill etched into eternity)." 🛠️🌄 Construction began in 1863, with the western terminus in Sacramento, California. Initially projected to take 15 years, Chinese laborers took over in 1865. Even as Irish crews wasted two years laying just 50 miles, 20,000 Chinese workers toiled day and night, finishing 7 years ahead of schedule—a feat that left an indelible mark on U.S. history. 👨🏭💪 But every mile of this railroad is soaked in blood, sweat, and sorrow. No injury/death records survive, so the true toll remains unknown. 😢⚰️ This isn’t just the California State Railroad Museum—it’s a monument to the glory and grief of Chinese laborers. 🏛️🕯️ 💡 Visitor Tips 🚗🎫 Crowds: Visit midweek for fewer tourists. 😅 (Weekends = chaos.) Tickets: $12/adult, kids under 5 free. 👶🆓 Parking: Free. 🚙💨 #SanFrancisco #BayArea #SFPrivateTours