Union Station will host the world’s only operating Big Boy locomotive, Union Pacific Big Boy No. 4014. The journey to Kansas City is part of a tour to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the transcontinental railroad’s completion.
The locomotive will be on display FREE to the public for one day only from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 18, 2019. You can track its arrival and full travels here.
According to the Union Pacific website, 25 Big Boys were built exclusively for Union Pacific Railroad. The first one was delivered in 1941.
The locomotives were 132 feet long and weighed 1.2 million pounds. Because of their great length, the frames of the Big Boys were “hinged,” or articulated, to allow them to negotiate curves. They had a 4-8-8-4 wheel arrangement, which meant they had four wheels on the leading set of “pilot” wheels which guided the engine, eight drivers, another set of eight drivers, and four wheels following which supported the rear of the locomotive. The massive engines normally operated between Ogden, Utah and Cheyenne, Wyoming.
Big Boy No. 4014 was delivered to Union Pacific in December 1941. The locomotive was retired in December 1961, having traveled 1,031,205 miles in its 20 years in service.
While you’re taking a look at Big Boy No. 4014, don’t miss the Genghis Khan: Bringing the Legend to Life exhibit also showcased at Union Station.
Union Station Location and Parking
Union Station is located at 30 West Pershing Road in Kansas City, Missouri.
Parking is available in two nearby lots and a parking garage. Rates range from $5-$15. You can also ride the KC Streetcar. There’s a stop right out front of Union Station.
