Train enthusiasts in northern Illinois have a lot to look forward to as an iconic steam engine, the Union Pacific Big Boy No. 4014, makes its way across the country on a national tour. The “Heartland of America” tour, which began earlier this week, will cover 10 states and give the general public a chance to see this classic locomotive in action.
The Big Boy No. 4014 is a beloved piece of history, one of 25 steam engines built in the 1940s to conquer the steep grades of Utah’s Wasatch Mountain Range during World War II. This powerful machine is the only one of the 25 still in operation today, and one of only eight that have survived over the years.
The tour includes whistle-stops and a public display day, and train enthusiasts in Illinois will have a chance to witness this majestic steam engine up close. Big Boy will be making four whistle-stops during its time in the state, along with a free public display day on September 8th from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Union Pacific’s Global III Terminal in Rochelle.
On its journey through Illinois, the steam engine will be making stops in Sterling, Rochelle, Watseka, and Nokomis. The whistle-stops are scheduled for Sept. 6th in Sterling at 1:30 – 1:45 p.m. CT (111 W. 2nd St.), and Sept. 9th in Watseka at 5:00 – 5:30 p.m. CT (North St. Crossing). On Sept. 9th, the locomotive will also be making its way to Rochelle at 8:45 – 9:00 a.m. CT (Rochelle Railroad Park, 124 N. 9th St.), and on Sept. 10th, it will be in Nokomis at 12:15 – 12:45 p.m. CT (Maple St. Crossing).
It’s important to note that for safety reasons, all attendees must remain at least 25 feet back from the tracks when viewing the locomotive. Taking pictures or videos while standing on the tracks or ballast is strictly prohibited, as well as climbing on the locomotive or any related equipment. Let’s all do our part to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
For more information on Big Boy’s schedule and updates on its journey, please visit the Union Pacific website. Don’t miss your chance to see this historic steam engine in action, as it makes its way through our beautiful state of Illinois. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that train enthusiasts and history buffs alike won’t want to miss.
In conclusion, the “Heartland of America” tour featuring the Union Pacific Big Boy No. 4014 is an exciting event for all train enthusiasts in northern Illinois. This iconic steam engine, one of the few survivors of its kind, will be making several stops in the state, including a free public display day in Rochelle. Let’s all come together to celebrate this extraordinary piece of history, while also ensuring the safety of ourselves and others.
