The California Western Railroad (CWR) extends from the Pacific Coast at Fort Bragg to the redwoods to Willits. It began as a logging line, but is known for the rail buses nicknamed "Skunks." This book details the history of the CWR and acquisition of the initial Skunk rail bus.

If redwood trees could share their stories, what would they say? Some of these giants are thousands of years old, but all have witnessed some truly unique moments in history. Historic Redwood National and State is a vibrant collection of essays sharing different parts of Redwood National Park’s history, from the Native Americans and the early explorers to park visitors today. Celebrate the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service and learn more about the cultural, political, and natural history of Redwood National and State Parks.

During the Civil War, President Lincoln signs a bill (Pacific Railroad Act of 1 July 1862) that authorizes the construction of a transcontinental railroad. When the war ends, Davy Brandon joins the Union Pacific as a surveyor and meets Miriam, his childhood sweetheart, whose father is in charge of construction. Davy and Peter Jesson, a civil engineer, fight over Miriam; and subsequently, Miriam refuses Davy's offer of marriage. When a band of Indians, led by the renegade Deroux, attack a construction train, Davy recognizes Deroux as his father's murderer and kills him in a hand-to-hand fight. Davy then joins the Central Pacific, which is racing the Union Pacific to the center of the continent. The joining of the two railroads by the golden spike is accompanied by the union of Davy and Miriam.