Roseville Receives the World’s Largest Operating Steam Locomotive: A Celebration of Union Pacific’s Big Boy No. 4014

Roseville, California will soon be home to a historic locomotive that has traveled across the country. The world’s largest operating steam locomotive, Union Pacific’s Big Boy No. 4014, is set to embark on a journey that will take it through several states before reaching its final tour stop in Roseville.

The Big Boy is an iconic piece of history, representing the important role that railroads played in shaping the nation’s history. Jim Vena, CEO of Union Pacific, highlights the technological advances that the industry has seen over the years, making this locomotive a valuable piece of living history. The excitement surrounding the Big Boy wherever it goes is a testament to its enduring impact.

Of the original 25 Big Boys built in the late 1930s to early 1940s, only seven survive today. No. 4014 was delivered to Union Pacific in December 1941 and served the railroad faithfully until its retirement in December 1961, covering over one million miles during its operational years. After being displayed at the RailGiants Museum in Pomona, California, the locomotive underwent a restoration and returned to service in 2019.

The Big Boy will arrive in Roseville on July 12 and will be on public display until July 13 before continuing its journey to Ogden, Utah for another display. Throughout its tour, it is essential to remember to stay at least 25 feet away from all railroad tracks for safety reasons. For more information about Big Boy’s upcoming tour, visit the Union Pacific website. Stay up to date with the latest news, weather, and sports by visiting FOX40.

As we celebrate this iconic Northern California railroad town’s brief time with this historical locomotive let us remember how much they have impacted our society and how much they still do today while keeping safety as our top priority when enjoying such events like these