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The Map of the Union Central Great Trans-Continental Railroad and Its Connections From the Missouri River to the Pacific Coast, published as part of Crofutt's Western World in 1872, provides a detailed visual representation of the rail connections that spanned the United States shortly after the completion of the transcontinental railroad.

This map highlights the routes of the Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR) and Central Pacific Railroad (CPRR), emphasizing their critical roles in linking the eastern states with the western frontier, and the rapid expansion of rail infrastructure following the Civil War.

The central feature of the map is the transcontinental railroad, which stretches from Council Bluffs, Iowa, across the plains and mountains of Nebraska, Wyoming, Utah, Nevada, and California, terminating in San Francisco. This line, completed in 1869, is depicted as the backbone of American rail travel at the time. The map also shows numerous branch lines that connect to major cities such as Chicago, Denver, Portland, and other locations in the Midwest and West, illustrating the growing network of railroads that enabled travelers and freight to move efficiently across the country.

Accompanying the map are detailed timetables for both the Union Pacific and Central Pacific railroads, which list station stops, distances, and schedules for trains running between key locations. The map also advertises the availability of Pullman Palace Sleeping Cars on all through trains, reflecting the emphasis on comfort and luxury for long-distance rail passengers. Further emphasizing the global reach of the railroad, the map includes information about steamship connections from San Francisco to destinations in Asia, New Zealand, and Australia, promoting rail as part of a larger international travel and freight network.

In addition to the map, the surrounding text includes editorial notes and advertisements, promoting the scenic routes, safety features, and technological advancements of the railroads. Testimonials, including one from Samuel F. B. Morse, praise Crofutt's Guide for its utility to travelers and settlers. The text also includes promotional materials for railroad services and routes, targeting potential settlers looking to move west, tourists, and business owners interested in freight transportation.

This map was published during a period of intense national growth, just a few years after the completion of the transcontinental railroad. It serves as both a practical travel guide and a promotional tool for the railroads, reflecting the excitement and possibilities that rail travel opened up for Americans. By linking the coasts and offering connections to international steamship routes, the railroads transformed travel and commerce, making this map a vital representation of the era’s technological and economic achievements.