Union Pacific 4014, famously known as the "Big Boy," has quite the storied history. Built in 1941 by the American Locomotive Company (ALCO), this massive steam locomotive was a powerhouse designed to tackle the challenging terrain of Utah's Wasatch Range. Its primary duty was hauling heavy freight trains, and it did so with remarkable efficiency.

After a long and illustrious career, No. 4014 was retired from revenue service in 1959, joining the ranks of other Big Boys that were gradually replaced by diesel locomotives. However, its story didn't end there. In a remarkable turn of events, Union Pacific decided to re-acquire and restore this iconic locomotive.

The restoration project, launched in 2013 at Union Pacific's Steam Shop in Cheyenne, Wyoming, was a monumental undertaking. Years of meticulous work by dedicated engineers and technicians culminated in May 2019 when No. 4014 roared back to life, becoming the world's largest operational steam locomotive once again.

Since then, No. 4014 has been delighting enthusiasts and spectators alike, participating in excursion services across various parts of the United States. Its journey has been marked by significant milestones, including becoming the first mainline steam locomotive equipped with the positive train control (PTC) system in 2021.

As it continues to captivate audiences with its majestic presence and powerful performance, No. 4014 remains a symbol of both Union Pacific's rich heritage and the enduring allure of steam locomotion. With each excursion, it keeps the spirit of a bygone era alive, reminding us of the remarkable engineering feats of the past.

Big Boy in Colfax. 99 Railroad Street, Colfax, CA. Union Pacific’s Big Boy #4014 will be stopping in Colfax from 11:15AM-11:30AM on Sunday, July 14, 2024.