Speech #430083238

I present the memorial of the Board of Tradeof Portland. Oregon. in which they recite that there are vast tracts of unoccupied lands within the undeveloped portion of their State and the adjoining Territories. and that such extent of country can only be made available for settlement by direct railroad communication with those States lying east of tbe Rocky Mountains. They mlsosay that the early completion of direct railroad communication will be am act of justice to our people. and greatly stimulate agriculture. mining. commerce. and the mechanical arts. will also furnish homes to thousands of immigrants. who will make our country rich by cultivation and by developing its mineralwealth. They conclude in the following language: We most respectfully petition Congress to extend sunh aid. by a guarantee of interest upon bonds or otherwise. as will most surely tend to secure to our people railroad connection with the Atlantic States. I desire to state. in this connection. a fact that is lost sight of sometimes. and that is that Oregon is the only State in the American Union today that is not connected with the remaining States by railroad communication.