Flagler’s Overseas Railway, Narrated by Sara Wiles

Sara Wiles is a Florida native, activist, and content creator who uses her platforms to help everyday people better understand, connect with, and act on the political issues shaping their lives and communities. Wiles tells how Henry Flagler defied his critics to build the "impossible" Overseas Railroad to Key West, transforming the future of Florida.

250 to 250

From the time of our country’s founding 250 years ago, the story of America has been one of the constant efforts of Americans—from all races, ethnicities, genders, and abilities—to make real the belief that we are all created equal and have a right to have a say in our democracy. We will be telling their stories over the next several weeks because now, as ever, “We Are America.”

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Notes

Unless otherwise noted, all images used in this video are in the public domain.

Building the Oversea Railway. Circa 1907 – 1910. Photograph. Courtesy of the Key West Art & Historical Society.

Henry M. Flagler at Knights Key Dock. Circa 1908 – 1912. Photograph. Courtesy of the Key West Art & Historical Society.

Jewfish Creek Bridge, 1907. Photograph. Courtesy of the Monroe County Public Library and Key West Art & Historical Society.

Florida East Coast Railway Relief Train. Circa September 4, 1935. Photograph. Courtesy of the Key West Art & Historical Society.