TRUCKEE, Calif. – The Sierra is known for its railroad history. A lot is heard about the men who built the Central Pacific Railroad, but what about the women who stood beside them? Come hear the untold stories of these remarkable “rail” housewives and celebrate their enduring impact on Saturday, July 19, from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Donner Memorial State Park.
Doors open at 5:00 p.m., and the presentation begins promptly at 5:30 p.m. Admission is a suggested donation of $5, and light refreshments will be provided. Free parking is available after 5 p.m., and no registration is required.
Debbie Hollingsworth holds a master’s degree in public history and serves as the head researcher and exhibit writer at the California State Railroad Museum in Old Sacramento State Historic Park. Over the past nine years, she has crafted engaging exhibits that explore key moments in Transcontinental Railroad history, including the contributions of Chinese railroad workers, the significance of the Golden Spike Ceremony, and the story behind the Commissioners’ Car. Passionate about bringing overlooked stories to light, Debbie’s favorite research topics revolve around the contributions of women in railroad history.
“Debbie Hollingsworth pulls back the curtain of ‘his’tory revealing ‘her’story which rounds out the amazing endeavors required to build the Central Pacific Railroad,” shares Rotha Carlson, Nevada County Library.
This event is a great example of a public-private partnership between the Sierra State Parks Foundation, California State Parks Foundation, and Nevada County Library.