Chances are, you have never seen a Union Pacific Big Boy steam locomotive in operation. Only 25 of these locomotives were originally built, and just one is still in working condition.
Luckily, if you’ve always wanted to see a Big Boy with your own eyes, Union Pacific’s No. 4014—the world’s largest—will be stopping in Chicago this week.
The historic 133-foot-long Big Boy steam locomotive arrives for a 3-day stop
Built in 1941 to haul heavy freight over steep mountain terrain during World War II, Union Pacific’s No. 4014 “Big Boy” measures an astounding 133 feet in length and weighs 1.2 million pounds. While it officially retired in 1961, it returned to service in 2019—and now it’s touring the country for America’s birthday.
Union Pacific’s Big Boy No. 4014 is scheduled to arrive in West Chicago on Tuesday evening, be on display on Wednesday, and depart Thursday morning.
On Wednesday, the massive 600-ton locomotive will be open to the public between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. at the Larry S. Provo Union Pacific Training Center, located at 335 Spencer St., south of the West Chicago Metra station.
While in West Chicago, it will be accompanied by the commemorative locomotives No. 1616 Abraham Lincoln and No. 1776 America 250, as well as several historic passenger cars from Union Pacific’s Heritage Fleet.
After leaving West Chicago, the procession will head to Indiana, then on to Philadelphia for a July 4-5 showing celebrating America’s 250th anniversary.
In addition to the train display, West Chicago is planning a variety of downtown activities, food options, historical tours, and visitor stops.
