FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) – A historic locomotive is making its way across the U.S. in a historic coast-to-coast tour to the East Coast in celebration of the United States of America’s 250th birthday, with a stop in the Summit City.
Today, one of the few ‘Big Boy’ locomotives is travelling across the country, touring more than 50 whistle stops in 10 states, according to Union Pacific. Among these stops are first-time stops in Indiana, Ohio, New York, and Pennsylvania, including Fort Wayne.
Union Pacific’s ‘Big Boy’ No. 4014 is the world’s largest operating steam engine, weighing in at a whopping 1.2 million pounds. 25 Big Boys were commissioned for Union Pacific, the first being delivered in 1941, where they were used to haul equipment in support of the war at the time.
On Friday, June 5, Big Boy will arrive at the station in Argos, Indiana, at 2:30 p.m., depart at 3 p.m., and make its way to the Summit City. While there is no public access to the locomotive’s stop in Fort Wayne, the public can see the train as it enters and exits Allen County. Hardcore train fans may be interested in catching up with the train in Argos, where there will be public access. The train’s full tour schedule is available to view here.
Train enthusiasts are welcome to track Big Boy’s journey across the country using Union Pacific’s tracking map for updates on the train’s whereabouts…