Question: Role of Government in RR Construction Funding

Was the payment for the Transcontinental Railroad the best idea (part government, part private companies)?

Thanks,
8th grade essay in FL

Question: Information on Railroad workers?

From: "Dr. Kevin Bradshaw" actordoc@comcast.net

My great-grandfather, Thomas Jefferson Bradshaw worked on the Transcontinental RR back in 1865-69, along with his brother, Joel I believe. I believe he began working on it when he was living near Marysville in a place called Grand Island. I believe he also went all the way to Promontory. Are there any documents, records, payroll accounts, etc., that can verify where and when he worked on the project? Thanks.

—Kevin B