In this fascinating historical account, Fessenden Nott Otis details the construction of the Panama Railroad and the role it played in the development of the American West. He also explores the history of the Pacific Mail Steamship Company and its impact on trade and transportation in the Pacific Ocean. With thorough research and engaging prose, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in American history and the development of transportation infrastructure.This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it.This work is in the "public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.