Question 1

Why did Paramount need a railroad operating license for this film?

Accepted Answer

To operate the number of trains required by the production, Paramount had to get a regulation railroad operating license from the Interstate Commerce Commission.

Question 2

How was the gold spike actually used in the ceremony, both in reality and in the movie?

Accepted Answer

The gold spike was not driven in; it was lowered into a hole drilled in a specially prepared tie. After the ceremony, it was pulled out by hand and replaced with an iron spike.

Question 3

Which Native American group was hired as extras for the Indian attack scene?

Accepted Answer

Paramount hired 100 Navajo Indian extras for the Indian attack on the train.

Question 4

What was unique about the gold spike used in the film's ceremony?

Accepted Answer

The gold spike was the same one used in the May 10, 1869 event, on loan from Stanford University.

Question 5

Why did Cecil B. DeMille direct much of the film from a stretcher?

Accepted Answer

According to a news item, DeMille directed from a stretcher because of an operation he had months earlier; studio records indicate he collapsed from strain and used a stretcher for about two weeks.

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