The Greatest Highway in the World / Historical, Industrial and Descriptive Information of the Towns, Cities and Country Passed Through Between New York and Chicago Via the New York Central Lines. Based on the Encyclopaedia Britannica.

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

27701

Title

The Greatest Highway in the World / Historical, Industrial and Descriptive Information of the Towns, Cities and Country Passed Through Between New York and Chicago Via the New York Central Lines. Based on the Encyclopaedia Britannica.

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

A historical and descriptive guide to the New York Central Railroad's route from New York to Chicago, highlighting the industrial and cultural significance of the cities and towns along the line.

Summary up to 500 words

Published by the New York Central Railroad Company and based on the Encyclopaedia Britannica, 'The Greatest Highway in the World' serves as a comprehensive companion for travelers traversing the nation's most vital artery. This extensive route connects New York and Chicago, crossing twelve states and serving a territory that housed over 50% of the U.S. population and produced 64% of the country's manufactured goods. The narrative begins in New York City, detailing the evolution of Grand Central Terminal from Commodore Vanderbilt's original vision to its status as a monumental engineering feat. The text highlights the city's rapid growth, comparing its density to London, and explores its historical roots, including the Revolutionary War sites like Fort George and the legacy of early settlers. The journey proceeds through the Mohawk Valley, a region of profound historical significance. The book describes strategic forts such as Fort Stanwix, where the first U.S. flag was carried in battle, and Fort Van Rensselaer. It profiles key figures like Sir William Johnson, who introduced sheep and horses to the province, and General Nicholas Herkimer, a hero of the Revolutionary War. The narrative also touches on the industrial heritage of towns like Ilion, home to the Remington rifle factory, and Utica, a hub for abolitionist activity led by Gerrit Smith. Arriving in Chicago, the work presents the city as a global center for grain, livestock, and manufacturing. It details the city's diverse demographics, noting its status as a major destination for immigrants from Germany, Ireland, and Scandinavia. The text covers Chicago's engineering marvels, such as the reversal of the Chicago River's flow for sanitation, and its skyline of steel-frame skyscrapers. Major institutions like the University of Chicago, endowed by John D. Rockefeller, and the Field Museum of Natural History are highlighted as pillars of the city's intellectual and cultural life. The book concludes by emphasizing the New York Central Railroad's efficiency and its role as a public institution that has driven national prosperity, carrying the majority of through passengers between the two cities and handling freight volumes exceeding those of all railroads in France and England combined.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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