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Libestal's 20 knights, each with an army of about 500, can conquer the surrounding land that has yet to be inhabited. Like dominoes, one by one, each does the last one better until they settle on a spot. Each spot resulted in the major cities we know today.
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On this day, the first steam locomotive, the Pen-y-Darren, was debuted by Richard Trevithick. As part of its debut, it successfully hauled 70 men and 10 tons of iron 9 miles. Knight Amelia Watson is taking note...
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The Stockton Darlington Railway in Great Britain goes public and demonstrates steam power's ability. Now Knight Watson Amelia is REALLY taking notes...
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With the opening of the Baltimore Ohio in the US, Knight Watson Amelia began planning to build a railroad line linking Watsonville and Libestal through Sharkstone, as well as one going through Murinville. The earliest document of her planning is linked to April 17, 1831. Several original documents of her conceptualizing her railroad are available at the Watson Amelia Museum in Watsonville.
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The first locomotive ever built in Libestal was nicknamed 'The Pioneer' and was commissioned by Knight Watson Amelia. Built by the Ernest Iron Co., she invited her fellow knights to witness the locomotive operating over a small mile-long stretch of track. Gaining national attention through word-of-mouth, the knight knew there was no turning back now.
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It was already apparent that Knight Watson Amelia intended to bring rail transport, a developing technology that wasn't yet steady, to Libestal. And on November 24, 1831, the announcement came. The knight had settled on a route connecting Watsonville to Libestal through Sharkstone. An ambitious plan, but surprisingly thorough planning. Everyone was invited to come down, including individuals and families.
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It was already apparent that Knight Watson Amelia intended to bring rail transport, a developing technology that wasn't yet steady, to Libestal. And on November 24, 1831, the announcement came. The knight had settled on a route connecting Watsonville to Libestal through Sharkstone. An ambitious plan, but surprisingly thorough planning. Everyone was invited to come down, including individuals and families.
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Eager to begin construction of Libestal's own railway, Knight Amelia Watson announced on November 24, 1831, both the establishment of the Watson Railway Co. and the construction of its line. All were encouraged to come down and assist in the work, both families and individual workers alike. The project began on this day in 1832, the first tie and rail laid at the current Milepost 0 in Watsonville.
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Watson Railways' line is being constructed. For a month or so, families come down and show interest, but afterward, it's back to paying workers to help in the construction.
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The main line reached Sharkstone on this day in 1833. 25 miles from Watsonville, but still another 10 to Libestal. Nonetheless, progress.
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Watson Railways reaches historic Libestal. The capital now has a direct link to Sharkstone.