The famed locomotive is expected to be at the Sterling Marketplace, 111 W. 2nd St., Sterling from 1:30-1:45 p.m. The whistle-stop was arranged by Sterling Mayor Diana Merdian.
“We are calling all train enthusiasts!” said Merdian. “As the Mayor of Sterling, I am thrilled to extend a warm welcome to our Train Town USA celebration on September 6th, 2024!”
The Big Boy Heartland of America Tour kicked off in Cheyenne, Wyoming on August 28th. Besides Illinois, the tour will pass through Arkansas, Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and Texas. The eight-week tour is expected to conclude in late October.
“Our city has diligently worked with local emergency officials to ensure a safe and spectacular event,” Merdian said. “For your safety, we kindly ask that all attendees enjoy the steam engine from the north side while the south track remains active. Remember to keep a minimum distance of 25 feet from the tracks at all times.”
Union Pacific also emphasizes these important safety tips when viewing the train:
- Stand back at least 25 feet from all railroad tracks.
- Railroad tracks, trestles, yards, and right of way are private property – please do not trespass.
- Never assume tracks are abandoned or inactive – always expect a train.
According to Union Pacific, Big Boy No. 4014 is one of eight of the twenty-five Big Boys built during World War II. It is the only one that is still in operation and remains the world’s largest operating steam locomotive. The Big Boy is about 133 feet long and weighs 1.2 million pounds. It was built in 1941 and restored in 2019, celebrating the 150th anniversary of the completion of the transcontinental railroad.
In addition to the Sterling whistle-stop, the Big Boy No. 4014 will have a viewing event on Sunday, September 8th in Rochelle. It will be on display from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Union Pacific Ike Evans Global III Terminal, 2701 Intermodal Drive, Rochelle. Admission is free and open to the public. It will then depart Rochelle at 8 a.m. on Monday, September 9, with a viewing at the Rochelle Train Park, 124 N. 9th St., Rochelle, between 8:45 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Union Pacific did note that all scheduled times and locations are subject to change. The ability to track the steam locomotive is available on Union Pacific’s website: https://www.up.com/heritage/steam/track/index.htm.
Downtown Sterling will have lots to offer train enthusiasts before and after the whistle-stop. Many of the downtown businesses will be offering specials and sales to celebrate the event. 3D Sound will be at the Marketplace, playing music as everyone waits for the train. Event merchandise is available for purchase at JJM, Build-A-Pet, and Sterling Main Street.
“Mark your calendars for a day filled with joy, music, and community spirit!” said Merdian. “Let’s unite to give Big Boy the most remarkable welcome and kick-start our Riverfront renaissance!”
