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The biggest steam locomotive is whistle-stopping across the U.S.

4 hours ago
  • #Union Pacific
  • #steam locomotive
  • #railroad history
  • Union Pacific's Big Boy No. 4014, the world's largest operating steam locomotive, is touring the U.S. for America's 250th birthday celebration.
  • The locomotive attracted large crowds at Valley Forge National Historical Park and Philadelphia's Navy Yard, with enthusiasts describing the experience as incredible and once-in-a-lifetime.
  • Big Boy locomotives were built from 1941 to 1944 for freight hauling; only No. 4014 remains operational after restoration by Union Pacific's Heritage Operations.
  • Engineer Ed Dickens operates the manually controlled, 7,000-horsepower locomotive and serves as an ambassador, emphasizing safety by urging spectators to stay 25 feet back.
  • The tour drew nearly 100,000 visitors in Philadelphia and includes stops in multiple states before returning to Wyoming.