The Pacific Railway Act, or Pacific Railroad Act, of 1862 was a landmark piece of legislation for railroads. According to the law, its purpose was “[t]o aid in the construction of a railroad and telegraph line from the Missouri River to the Pacific Ocean, and to secure to the Government the use of the same for postal, military, and other purposes.” In passing this act, federal support was provided for building a much-needed transcontinental Railroad.  

A BOOK