Big Boy No. 4014 Steam Locomotive Visits Northeast Ohio

In celebration of America 250, Union Pacific’s famed Big Boy No. 4014, the world’s largest operating steam locomotive, made a whistle-stop along the Westlake-Bay Village tracks Monday before continuing its journey to the East Coast through the west shore as part of its historic cross-country tour.

Big Boy No. 4014 will reunite with Big Boy No. 4012 at Steamtown National Historic Site in Scranton, PA from June 17-30, the only place to see two Big Boys lined up side-by-side. The tour includes a Fourth of July celebration in Philadelphia, major display events in eight cities and more than 50 whistle-stops in 10 states.

Big Boy’s No. 4014’s return trip through Greater Cleveland will take place on July 13, where it’ll stop in Rocky River at the former Rocky River Nickel Plate train station located at 19060 Depot St. from approximately 1-1:30 p.m. The public is welcome to come and view Big Boy at that time, but please note that parking and space is limited. The schedule is subject to change and Big Boy may operate ahead or behind the posted schedule. Please visit the Union Pacific website at https://www.up.com/about-us/history/steam/big-boy-4014 for the latest schedule and safety information.

Big Boy was accompanied by several historic passenger cars from Union Pacific’s Heritage Fleet, three Norfolk Southern business cars and commemorative locomotives from both Norfolk Southern and Union Pacific.

What is Big Boy No. 4014?

Big Boy No. 4014, the world’s largest operating steam locomotive and one of the most famous locomotives ever built, about 133 feet long and weighing roughly 1.2 million pounds.

Twenty-Five Big Boy engines were built during World War II – designed to haul heavy freight over the steep grades of the Wasatch Mountains between Utah and Wyoming, but No. 4014 is the only one still operating. The seven other remaining Big Boys are on public display in St. Louis, MO; Dallas, TX; Omaha, NE; Denver, CO; Scranton, PA; Green Bay, WI; and Cheyenne, WY.

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