Letter from Samuel B. Reed to Wife and Family, October 21, 1867

In this letter from October 21, 1867, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing his trip to the mountains with the delegation of newspaper editors, noting that "such a set of ninnies I never saw on the plains." Reed also reflects on the magnitude of the work on the Union Pacific line and suggests that few appreciate the difficulty of their efforts.

Omaha, NE, NE
October 21, 1867

I have just arrived from the mountains where I have been since last Sunday. The trip was a pleasant one. I started from here with the editorial party and continued with them to the end of the track where most of the party turned back. A few went on to Cheyenne and two went up into the mountains with me. All were delighted with the trip. Such a set of ninnies I never saw on the plains.

There were a few that could appreciate the magnitude of the work and but few. They saw the road as it had been built 500 miles into the wilderness and did not realize the magnitude and boldness of the enterprise. George Francis Train was present as usual and succeeded in gaining the contempt of some and the respect of others and was the great speaker of the crowd. I am expecting the building committee here this week. Seven men have been chosen by the company to control the building the coming season and I fear that business will be seven times more complicated than heretofore. As soon as I know who aside from Mr. Durant and Mr. Dillon are appointed I will let you know.