(Luling) — Union Pacific is celebrating the 150th anniversary of the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad, and it is bringing a special steam engine through the area today as part of the celebration. Union Pacific’s historic Big Boy steam locomotive No. 4014 is going to be passing through the Seguin area around 9 a.m., and it will be making a scheduled stop in Luling at approximately 10 a.m. The train is scheduled to arrive at East Davis and Pecan Avenue in Luling at 10 a.m., and then depart at 10:30 a.m. Union Pacific officials say due to the dynamic nature of these operations, running times and and scheduled stops are subject to change.
If you’re coming out to see the train in person, Union Pactific strongly encourages the public to keep safety in mind:
– Remember, trains can’t stop quickly to avoid people or vehicles on the tracks.
– A train’s distance and speed can be deceiving.
– The average train overhangs the track by at least three feet – take extra precaution and stand back at least 25 feet.
– Railroad tracks, trestles, yards and right of way are private property.
– Never assume tracks are abandoned or inactive – always expect a train.
Union Pacific’s Big Boy 4014 is the world’s largest steam locomotive, and this is expected to be its final tour. The locomotive was newly restored for this journey.
“Weighing in at 1.2 million pounds, the Big Boy makes a big impression in communities it visits, reminding us of bygone days and the important role the railroad continues to play in our global economy,” said Scott Moore, senior vice president – Corporate Relations and chief administrative officer. “Union Pacific wants to thank the countless rail fans and communities who have helped us celebrate this tremendous anniversary.”
Steam locomotive, interactive railcar continues historic run through Texas
Twenty-five Big Boys were built exclusively for Union Pacific, the first of which was delivered in 1941 to handle the steep terrain between Cheyenne and Ogden. Of the eight still in existence, No. 4014 is the world’s only operating Big Boy. In May, it completed its inaugural tour to Ogden for Union Pacific’s 150th anniversary ceremony. The Big Boy and historic steam locomotive Living Legend No. 844 met nose-to-nose, recreating the iconic image taken May 10, 1869, when the last spike was tapped into place at Promontory Summit, creating America’s first transcontinental railroad.
The train made a major stop in San Antonio on Tuesday, and has another big stop planned in Houston on Thursday. It will be stopped at 902 Washington Ave. in Houston from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, and the company’s Experience the Union Pacific Rail Car will also be available that day. The Experience the Union Pacific Rail Car is said to be a 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 know-how 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 their Passenger Heritage Fleet through vintage photos.
Please note that due to its historic nature, Union Pacific’s Heritage Passenger Fleet equipment — including the Experience the Union Pacific Rail Car — is not ADA accessible.