In an extraordinary event attracting thousands, the Union Pacific Big Boy locomotive 4014 made its much-anticipated arrival at the Steamtown National Historic Site in Scranton. Expected to draw as many as 30,000 visitors in a single day, this monumental steam engine is the centerpiece of a historic nationwide tour celebrating America’s upcoming 250th birthday.
Historic Arrival
Since its grand opening in 1995, the Steamtown National Historic Site has been a beacon for railway enthusiasts. Superintendent Jeremy Komasz emphasized the site’s unique role within the National Park Service, stating, “Steamtown has the unique opportunity in the entire National Park Service to have the mission of preserving railroading history in America.” This mission is vividly brought to life with the visit of Big Boy 4014, the only operational locomotive among the eight remaining of its kind.
The locomotive, famed for being the largest operating steam locomotive in the world, embarked on a historic coast-to-coast journey from Cheyenne, Wyoming, on May 25. Its stop at Steamtown is notably the longest rest on this tour before it heads to Philadelphia for the Fourth of July celebrations.
Steam Legends Unite
Visitors at the park were treated to the sight of Big Boy 4014 alongside its static sibling, Big Boy 4012. Brendan Munoz, a 12-year-old visitor from Roselle Park, New Jersey, expressed his excitement, saying, “This is the only place in America that there’s two big boys together. I love how they’re giant machines … and with the railroads come these giant steam engines, and I’m excited to see two of them, especially one operating.”
A Living Piece of History
The massive steam engine drew lines of people stretching blocks, all eager to witness a part of living history. Joe Costa, adorned with railroad memorabilia, reflected on seeing the Big Boy in operation, noting, “It’s pretty amazing seeing a Big Boy, you know, like operational after like 50 years after the end of steam.”
Emotional Journey
As Big Boy 4014 journeyed through Pennsylvania, it was met with overwhelming enthusiasm from the public. Ed Dickens, senior manager of heritage operations for Union Pacific, described the emotional experience of running the locomotive over the historic Tunkhannock Viaduct, emphasizing the profound connection between the public and this iconic piece of machinery.
However, Dickens also stressed the importance of safety, urging visitors to stay off the tracks amidst a concerning trend of people turning their backs to the train for selfies. “So we’d like to shut that down right away,” he stated, highlighting the seriousness of maintaining safety around the operational locomotive.
Economic Boost
Curt Camoni, Executive Director of the Lackawanna County Convention and Visitors Bureau, noted the economic impact of the Big Boy’s visit, predicting approximately 2,000 hotel rooms sold due to the event. This influx of visitors has not only filled local hotels but also benefited local businesses, like Friendly Alien Books, which saw increased foot traffic during the locomotive’s stay.
For those interested in witnessing this historic reunion at Steamtown, more information and ticket reservations can be found at www.nps.gov/stea/planyourvisit/big-boy-reunion-at-steamtown-2026.htm.
