July 26, 1858

The newest section of the Missouri-Pacific Railroad was completed between California, Missouri and Tipton, Missouri. Over the next 120 years, the rail line eventually covered more than 13,000 miles of rail through 11 states.

This post was contributed by Ross Malone. A historian and a retired school teacher, Ross has authored many books about Missouri’s history, weird facts, and folk tales. He has also written children’s historical fiction. Visit his website, and buy his books in the Missouri Life store.

Image from Library of Congress licensed under the public domain