Many heading for California have used the…

Many heading for California have used the isthmus crossing in preference to the long and dangerous wagon route across the vast plains and rugged mountain ranges, even before the United States acquires California after the Mexican War (1846-48).

Discovery of gold in 1848 increases traffic greatly.

In 1847 a group of New York financiers had organized the Panama Railroad Company.

This company secures an exclusive concession from Colombia allowing construction of a crossing, which might be by road, rail, river, or a combination.

After surveys, a railroad is chosen, and a new contract so specifying is obtained in 1850.

The railroad track follows generally the line of the present canal.

The first through train from the Atlantic to the Pacific side will run on the completed track on January 28, 1855.