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History Roars to Life: Union Pacific’s Big Boy 4014 is heading to Houston

HEMPSTEAD, TX – An electric atmosphere enveloped Hempstead today as crowds gathered to witness a piece of American history: Union Pacific’s Big Boy No. 4014, the world’s largest steam locomotive. This much-anticipated visit is part of the Heartland of America Tour, which kicked off in Cheyenne, Wyoming, on August 28th and traces a route through the Midwest and into the Southern United States.


Big Boy No. 4014 stands as a testament to engineering prowess, one of only eight such locomotives that were constructed during World War II, and notably, the only one still operational today. Spanning an impressive 132 feet and weighing in at a staggering 1.2 million pounds, this behemoth of the rails boasts a water capacity of 25,000 gallons. It served Union Pacific from 1941 to 1961, logging over a million miles along the way.


Today's stop in Hempstead served as a bridge to the past, captivating both young and old who marveled at this iconic machine that symbolizes a significant chapter in American history. Following the Hempstead visit, Big Boy No. 4014 made its way to Houston’s Amtrak Station, where it will be on public display on Sunday, October 6th from 9am-3pm. Hundreds are expected to see this magnificent locomotive, a true marvel of human ingenuity and a cherished piece of our nation's fabric.

Mike Acosta

About the Author: 


Mike Acosta, a Partner at Houston City Beat, is a proud Houstonian with a diverse background in art, history, and communications. He spent 22 years with the Houston Astros, contributing to broadcasting, marketing, and operations, and was instrumental in establishing the Astros Hall of Fame and integrating the MLB Authentication Program. With over 20 years of experience as a broadcaster and PA announcer, Mike has worked at all levels of sports. He’s also a dedicated preservationist, serving on the Board of Directors for the Astrodome Conservancy and co-founding Astrodome reIMAGINEd, LLC, focused on revitalizing the Astrodome.