All about the community of model railroading and rail enthusiasm
March 14, 2019 / Updated June 26, 2023
Union Pacific announced today the commemorative tour schedule for its historic steam locomotives, Big Boy No. 4014 and Living Legend No. 844. The iconic steam locomotives will unite for the first time in a public display May 9 in Ogden, UT, during UP’s celebratory event marking the transcontinental railroad’s 150th anniversary.
The festivities include recreating the iconic photo taken May 10, 1869, when the last spike was tapped into place at Promontory Summit, creating America’s first transcontinental railroad. UP no longer has tracks near Promontory Summit (they were removed to support the scrap metal projects during World War II).
“Completing the transcontinental railroad was a major feat that united America and laid the foundation for the country’s growth, economic progress and improved the way of life,” said Scott Moore, senior vice president – Corporate Relations and chief administrative officer. “The restored steam engines are rolling pieces of history that take us back in time as we celebrate this momentous anniversary. We’re excited to share No. 844 and No. 4014 with our communities, and invite generations to join us along the tour.”
No. 844 will leave Cheyenne, WY, April 27. It will make several brief whistle-stops in communities along the way and arrive in Ogden on April 28. The Living Legend will be on display at Ogden Union Station through May 11.
The Big Boy’s return follows more than two years of restoration. Of eight Big Boys still in existence, No. 4014 is the only operational one in the world.
It will leave Cheyenne May 4 following a 9:30 a.m. MT christening ceremony at the historic Cheyenne Depot and arrive in Ogden for the May 9 celebratory event at Ogden Union Station. The Big Boy also will make several whistle-stops in communities along its route.
A comprehensive tour schedule, including No. 844 and No. 4014 GPS location tracking information is available on the company’s steam page. Running times and scheduled stops are subject to change, the company said.
The 150th anniversary celebration will continue throughout the year with No. 4014 visiting several states across the Union Pacific system. A tentative schedule with tour locations and dates will be published soon.
