The Overland Route

The Overland Route refers to a historic network of railroad lines connecting the eastern United States to the West, primarily established during the 19th century. It spans from Missouri or Illinois across the Great Plains and mountains to reach California or the Pacific Coast. This route facilitated westward expansion, trade, and migration, and played a crucial role in shaping American development. Today, parts of it are still used for freight and passenger travel, with the famous Transcontinental Railroad being a key example that symbolized linking the nation coast-to-coast.