UP’s ‘Big Boy’ Locomotive Touring East Coast
Union Pacific has announced an exciting event featuring its iconic 4-8-8-4 “Big Boy” locomotive, number 4014. This tour is scheduled to coincide with the upcoming 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. It will mark the first operational appearance of a Big Boy steam locomotive in the Eastern United States.
Tour Details
The Big Boy will begin its journey on May 25, departing from Cheyenne, Wyoming. The itinerary includes stops at:
- Omaha, Nebraska
- Chicago, Illinois
- Buffalo, New York
- Scranton, Pennsylvania
The locomotive is expected to arrive in Philadelphia just in time for Independence Day celebrations. Following the festivities, additional display days are planned in:
- Altoona, Pennsylvania
- St. Louis, Missouri
- Kansas City, Missouri
The entire tour will conclude on July 29.
Locomotive Significance
The Big Boy locomotives are renowned for their size and power. Built during the steam era, they are among the largest steam locomotives ever constructed.
Commemorative Locomotives
In addition to the tour, Union Pacific will unveil two new commemorative locomotives as part of the celebration. The first is the SD70M 1776, which features the “America 250” logo and bears the classic UP “Building America” livery that was introduced in 2001.
The second locomotive, numbered 4547, honors former President Donald J. Trump. This unit is the latest addition in a series that pays tribute to U.S. presidents, following earlier renditions that honored Abraham Lincoln and George H.W. Bush.
This upcoming tour not only celebrates American history but also showcases Union Pacific’s commitment to preserving its rich heritage through these legendary steam locomotives.
