Re: Dates relating to gauge of Pacific railroad.

From: "chris graves" caliron@cwnet.com

I noted with interest your mention of the WP. I find, from Colfax, Cal. East to Central Nevada, wrought iron 'pear' rail branded RIC 64, which I suspect was used by the Associates for side rail. The source of this 50 lb iron has been a mystery, my current thoughts revolve around the WP as it ran from San Jose to Niles in early 1865. The rolling mill that made this rail is Rensselaer Iron Co. of Troy, New York, but for whom it was originally made is not known. Should you find, in your Washington, DC search, a reference to this iron, I would be most pleased to learn of it.
Thanks, G J Chris Graves, NewCastle, Cal.