"Memorial and Joint Resolution relative to a grant of Lands," February 11, 1858

National Archives and Records Administration, Records of the U.S. House of Representatives

Western legislatures understood that a railroad held the promise of prosperity and growth for their region. This 1858 memorial from the Council and House of Representatives of the Territory of Nebraska was one of many from westerners asking Congress to grant a railroad right-of-way through their state or territory.