Union Pacific’s ‘Big Boy’ makes its way through Cass County

Nov. 11, J.K. Hileman’s STARS classes traveled to Marshall, to experience a piece of American History when Union Pacific’s Big Boy No. 4014 rolled through town.

During World War II Union Pacific operated some of the most modern and powerful steam locomotives ever built. Among them were the famous “Big Boys,” the largest steam locomotives in the world. Working with them were the “800-class” high-speed passenger locomotives, as well as hundreds of older class steam engines.

Union Pacific’s steam legacy continues today with the preservation and operation of its historic fleet – No. 844 and No. 4014. Union Pacific’s historic steam locomotives – Big Boy No. 4014 and the Living Legend No. 844 – are touring the Union Pacific system throughout 2019 to commemorate the transcontinental railroad’s 150th anniversary.

The Big Boy’s return to the rails is the product of more than two years of meticulous restoration work by the Union Pacific Steam Team. No. 4014 is the world’s only operating Big Boy locomotive.

The Experience the Union Pacific Rail Car is a brand new, multi-media walk-through exhibition that provides a glimpse at the past while telling the story of modern-day railroading.

Through sound, images and interactive technology, rail fans will see how Union Pacific is building America in their communities and throughout the world.

After entering the converted baggage car, patrons will first learn about the investment, hard work and knowhow that went into building the transcontinental railroad. Moving forward along one wall they’ll learn about the evolution of the locomotive, beginning with the world famous UP No. 119 and leading to the modern-day diesel powerhouses.

On the opposite wall, rail fans will trace how fresh apples are delivered from California and Washington to New York, and learn about every aspect of rail operations and innovation along the way. Next, exciting interactive technology will show how Union Pacific is using lasers, cameras and other detection devices to accurately inspect moving rail cars and railroad track.

Folks will be able to test their skills to see how they would measure up as rail car inspectors. Before they leave, exhibition-goers will be able to show us how they connect to the railroad using high-tech thermal reactive tiles. A final display celebrates the history of our Passenger Heritage Fleet through vintage photos.