Synopsis

The film presents an idealized image of the construction of the American first transcontinental railroad. It culminates with the scene of driving of the golden spike at Promontory Summit on May 10, 1869. There is even a note in the title before this scene, that the original locomotives from 1869 event act in the film (Although this is false – both engines were scrapped before 1910). Of course, a romantic story with love, treachery and revenge is also here. Main stars were George O’Brien and Madge Bellamy.

There is a video version of this film, with original music composed and conducted by John Lanchbery with philharmonic orchestra from Prague. This version is softly tinted.

Cast

• George O’Brien – Davy Brandon
• Madge Bellamy – Miriam Marsh
• Charles Edward Bull – Abraham Lincoln
• Cyril Chadwick – Peter Jesson
• Will Walling – Thomas Marsh
• Francis Powers – Sgt. Slattery
• J. Farrell MacDonald – Cpl. Casey
• Jim Welch – Pvt. Schultz (as James Welch)
• George Waggner – Col. William F. ‘Buffalo Bill’ Cody
• Fred Kohler – Bauman
• James A. Marcus – Judge Haller (as James Marcus)
• Gladys Hulette – Ruby
• Chief John Big Tree – Cheyenne Chief (uncredited)