WEST CHICAGO, Ill. (WBBM Newsradio) – Thousands of people gathered in West Chicago on Wednesday for a chance to see Big Boy 4014, the world’s largest operating steam locomotive, during a stop on its nationwide tour ahead of America’s 250th anniversary celebration.
The massive locomotive, which first entered service during World War II, spent the day on public display near the West Chicago Metra station, drawing railroad enthusiasts, history buffs and families eager to get an up-close look.
“It’s immense,” said one attendee. “It’s bigger than any steam engine I’ve ever seen.”“I’m impressed by the size of the wheels because I’m 6-foot and the wheels are almost as tall as me,” said another visitor…