ISAAC EVAN JAMES

January 6, 1830 – January 1, 1887

In March, 1868 William Sharon of the Bank of California contracted with Isaac Evan James to construct a railroad from the mines of the Comstock Lode to the stamp mills located on the Carson River. Survey work got underway in December and grading began in February 1869. The line had meanwhile been extended to Carson City and was up and running to Virginia City on January 29, 1870.

The Virginia & Truckee Railroad – “Crookedest Railroad in the World” according to many journalists – had a ruling gradde of 2.2 percent and a curvature equivalent to 17 complete circles in the 13 1/2 mile run to this river. In recognition of his amazing engineering feat, Engine No. 9 was named the “I.E. James”.

Dedicated October 31, 6007 (2002) by Snowshoe Thompson Chapter No. 1827 Ancient and Honorable Order of E Clampus Vitus