Big Boy 4014 Powers Through Glen Ellyn
The moment arrives after months of checking the Union Pacific Steam Train schedule. DW5D0690_1.JPG
The moment arrives after months of checking the Union Pacific Steam Train schedule. DW5D0696_1.JPG
VIDEO - Big Boy in Glen Ellyn
VIDEO. There is a TV news helicopter hovering just above, so that's the noise you are hearing until Big Boy is upon us. MVI_2992_copy_edited.mov
Crowds Form at the Provo Center
The Union Pacific Larry S. Provo Training Center in West Chicago hosted a three day viewing of the 1.2 million pound, 133 foot long rebuilt steam engine 4014, nicknamed "Big Boy." The line to get in was three and a half blocks long. Some visitors arrived before dawn. DW5D0707_1.JPG
Big Boy Detail 67 inch Diameter Drive Wheels
Some of the largest rail wheels ever cast; 67 inches in diameter connected to beautifully machined brass. Just as impressive up close as it looks when running down the rails at full speed. Note: Below, on top of the ballast and below the train, in white, is a mechanic fixing something! DW5D0711_1.JPG
Big Boy 4014 On Display
Staring down at the nose of the beast. DW5D0713_1.JPG
Experience the Union Pacific
An optional exhibit showcased the history and railcar luxury of the last century. DW5D0714_1.JPG
Big Boy 4014 On Display - Close Up
Detail of the front. DW5D0717_1.JPG
Big Boy 4014 Detail
DW5D0719_1.JPG
Some of the largest rail wheels ever cast; 67 inches in diameter connected to beautifully machined brass. Just as impressive up close as it looks when running down the rails at full speed. Note: Below, on top of the ballast and below the train, in white, is a mechanic fixing something! DW5D0720_1.JPG
Big Boy 4014 Engineer's Cab
Big Boy 4014 engineer's cab. DW5D0732_1.JPG
Rivot detail in the sunshine. DW5D0734_1.JPG
Visitors Arriving Over the Wilson Avenue Bridge
A great viewing spot was on the Wilson Street Bridge above. DW5D0737_1.JPG
Big Boy has some complicated linkages. DW5D0740_1.JPG
Inspecting and Maintaining Big Boy 4014
Oiling and polishing is continuous. DW5D0743_1.JPG
Big Boy 4014 engineer's cab. DW5D0746_1.JPG
The End. Big Boy 4014
Of couse there would be an elaborate caboose on this awesome train. DW5D0750_1.JPG
I Hear the Train a Comin'...
Holy Smoke! When Big Boy accelerates, you can see it for miles. DW5D0754_1.JPG
Holy Smoke! When Big Boy accelerates, you can see it for miles. DW5D0754_2_edit_v5.JPG
It's Rollin' 'Round the Bend...
Slowing down now, and not smoking nearly as much. DW5D0768_1.JPG
When I Hear That Whistle Blowin'...
The engineer blows the whistle very loudly as it approaches the bridge. I know that it's a friendly salute, but ouch. Underneath are more railfans that he's waving at. I don't know where the safer spot was to view. Along the busy road I was perched upon, or down next to the tracks? The rail safety rules state to do neither. DW5D0771_1.JPG
VIDEO -- But That Train Keeps a-rollin'...
VIDEO Passing underneath as I can actually taste the smoke. UP_4014_Big_Boy_MVI_2995_edited.mov
Farther Down the Line
They're everywhere! Nine railfans stood on my "secret bridge" that I scouted a week earlier -- and many more at trackside. I somehow thought I'd be the only one up there. The above five photo titles are select lyrics from Johnny Cash's Folsom Prison Blues DW5D0784_1.JPG
