When Iowa gained statehood in 1846, the federal government planned four major rail lines to cross the state. Des Moines, as the capital and a midpoint between Chicago and Omaha, was a natural hub for rail services.

Key players included the Mississippi and Missouri Railroad (a branch of the Chicago and Rock Island), the Keokuk, Fort Des Moines and Minnesota Railroad, and the Des Moines Valley Railroad. Des Moines had a strong connection with Keokuk, strengthened by steamboat trade along the Des Moines River and political support to relocate the capital from Iowa City.

By 1856–1857, rail construction was advancing from towns like Buena Vista and Ottumwa. In 1861, the line reached Eddyville—just 68 miles from Des Moines—before funding dried up.

After the Civil War, the Des Moines Valley Railroad sought $70,000 to complete the line. Oskaloosa tried to divert the route with financial incentives, but Des Moines supporters were given a chance to match the offer.

Cattleman James Jordan, needing a better route to market, pledged $1,000. Hundreds joined in, raising $100,000. Their efforts paid off: the first passenger train from Keokuk arrived in Des Moines on August 29, 1866, after a 7.5-hour trip.

—From Pursuit of a Dream: James Jordan, His Life and His Legacy by M. Louise Gately