Completion of Northwestern Pacific Railroad (Part II)

This segment, Part II of the documentation on the completion of the Northwestern Pacific Railroad, captures the ceremonial and celebratory aspects of this significant infrastructure project:
Golden Spike Ceremony: The film begins just north of Willits and follows the railroad's path over trestles and through tunnels, leading to the main event at Cain Rock where the golden spike ceremony takes place. This ceremony symbolizes the completion of the rail line, with key figures like San Francisco Mayor Rolph and the Mayor of Eureka present.
Celebratory Events: The footage includes the celebrations held on October 23-25, 1914, capturing speeches, the driving of the golden spike, and the communal joy of the occasion. It also extends to the festivities in Arcata and Eureka the following day, showcasing how the completion of the railroad was a regional milestone celebrated across several towns.
First Redwood Lumber Train: Attached to this reel is a short film from around 1931, showing the first train load of redwood lumber heading east. This event, with "Engineer" Governor Rolph present to see it off, underscores the economic implications of the railroad, particularly for the lumber industry, which was vital to Northern California's economy.
Historical Context: The completion of the Northwestern Pacific Railroad was pivotal for connecting isolated areas, facilitating the transport of goods like lumber, and promoting economic development in the region. This footage not only documents an engineering feat but also the social and economic hopes tied to such projects.
Visual Record: The film provides a visual narrative of the landscape, the technological achievements of the time, and the human spirit of celebration, offering insights into early 20th-century America's expansion of infrastructure.