The Last Spike

This month marks the 139th Anniversary of the driving of the "Last Spike" at Promontory Summit, Utah. Many people today easily acknowledge the significance of the occasion so many years ago, but have not updated their perception of railroad track construction as performed today.

In order to correct that, I offer two photos that demonstrate the hugh difference between "then" and "now".

As it once was:


And, as it is now
(courtesy Harsco Track):


If required, please update your paradigms accordingly!