Central Pacific Railroad

Western Union Telegram
August, 1867

CPRR Crew --

Congratulations on finishing the "Chinese Wall." This 75 foot retaining wall was hand built by many of your Chinese crews. I also watched them hanging on ropes over the side of the cliff to blast away the rock at Cape Horn. They are hard workers who work for about $30 in gold each month. They are living in tents and cook their own meals. They just eat fish, dried oysters, fruit, mushrooms and seaweed. They are cheap to feed and they work hard.

Charlie Crocker

Chinese Wall
Teacher notes Back Interactive Railroad Project Home Next

Copyright © 2000-2001, CPRR.org.  [Last Updated 2/25/2001]
Use of this Web site constitutes acceptance of the User Agreement;
Click any image or link to accept.

Central Pacific Railroad Photographic History Museum