Two Big Boys Reunite after over 65 Years.

They were built in Schenectady, NY between 1941-1944.  They were designed to pull heavy freight trains over the mountains in Wyoming without the assistance of helper engines.  They were nicknamed “Big Boy.” 25 were built.
By 1959, they were replaced by diesel locomotives.  Most were scrapped, while eight others ended up in railroad museums.  Fortunately, the Union Pacific Railroad spent extensive funds and time to restore one of these articulated giants back to operating condition.

This engine is numbered 4014, was restored for operation in 2019, and in mid-June, it will arrive at the Steamtown National Historic Site on its cross-country tour.  It will be reunited with one of its sister locomotives, number 4012, which is on static display at the park.   4012 was moved to Scranton from Bellows Falls, Vermont in 1986 along with other locomotives and equipment when the new site opened.  This collection was largely part of the F. Nelson Blount collection and came from the original Steamtown site.

The video below will give you much information about the project as well as a timetable and route for 4014.  If you have an opportunity, it would be a worthwhile experience to see the “Big Boy” in action.

---