Union Pacific’s legendary Big Boy No. 4014 – the world’s largest operating steam locomotive – is making a stopover to Buffalo as part of its coast‑to‑coast tour to celebrate America’s 250th birthday. Regional railfans are already clamoring at the opportunity to see this massive 4-8-8-4 locomotive in person. The legendary engine, built by the American Locomotive Company (ALCO) in Schenectady New York (1941), was designed to tackle steep mountain grades rather effortlessly. The locomotive, which weighs a whopping 1.1 million pounds, is one of only eight remaining Big Boys, and is the only one still operating today.
In a day and age when these types of rail legends seem to be more myth than reality, it’s no wonder that so many train enthusiasts are excited about the pending visit.
In order to see Big Boy No. 4014, which will be stationed in Bison Yard (a working rail yard), visitors will be required to take a free park-n-ride shuttle service from the Walden Galleria Mall’s north side, near Primark. The event will take place on Wednesday, June 10, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m…