The world’s largest operating steam locomotive, Union Pacific’s Big Boy No. 4014, is making a highly anticipated return to Colorado in October 2024 as part of its “Heartland of America” fall tour. The locomotive, renowned for its incredible size and historical significance, will make two whistle stops in the Centennial State:
- Strasburg, CO – Monday, October 21, from 3:45 PM to 4:15 PM at Monroe Street Crossing
- Greeley, CO – Wednesday, October 23, from 12:35 PM to 1:05 PM at the 10th Street Crossing (KUSA.com)
Although the stops are brief, these appearances will give rail enthusiasts and history buffs a unique opportunity to experience the power and grandeur of Big Boy up close.
Big Boy No. 4014: A Monument to Steam Power
The Big Boy locomotives were designed in the 1940s to handle heavy freight over the rugged terrain of the Wasatch Mountains, especially during the demands of World War II. Twenty-five units of the 4-8-8-4 class were built by the American Locomotive Company (ALCO), with No. 4014 being delivered in December 1941. Capable of hauling freight loads over 4,000 tons, it traveled more than 1 million miles before being retired in 1961 due to the rise of diesel-electric engines (UP) (Wikipedia).
This massive steam engine is an engineering marvel:
- Length: 132 feet (longer than two city buses)
- Weight: 1.1 million pounds (heavier than a Boeing 747)
- Top speed: 80 mph, though most freight hauls were done at lower speeds
- Tractive effort: 135,375 pounds of force (Wikipedia).
After its initial retirement, Big Boy No. 4014 was displayed at a museum in Pomona, California. In 2013, Union Pacific reacquired the locomotive and restored it to full operation in 2019, marking the 150th anniversary of the Transcontinental Railroad’s completion (Wikipedia) (UP).
The Heartland of America Tour and Colorado Stops
Big Boy’s 2024 tour celebrates Union Pacific’s rail heritage and the communities connected by its tracks. It spans multiple states, including Texas, Illinois, and Nebraska, culminating with these brief but meaningful stops in Colorado. The choice of Strasburg is particularly symbolic, as the town claims proximity to a critical section of the original Transcontinental Railroad. Meanwhile, Greeley’s stop offers visitors access to the Colorado Model Railroad Museum, a fitting venue to reflect on the importance of railroads in American history (UP).
Viewing Big Boy Safely and Making the Most of the Experience
For those planning to catch a glimpse of the Big Boy, Union Pacific advises maintaining a safe distance of at least 25 feet from the tracks and avoiding placing objects on the rails. The locomotive’s size and power make it a spectacle, so prepare for crowds and arrive early to secure a good spot for viewing or photography (UP) (KUSA.com).
The Big Boy No. 4014 isn’t just a piece of history—it’s a living testament to American ingenuity, and its return to Colorado offers a rare opportunity to witness steam-powered engineering in action. Whether in Strasburg or Greeley, the stops promise to bring excitement and nostalgia to fans of all ages.
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