History was made in Northeast Pennsylvania over the weekend as the world's largest operating steam locomotive passed through the region for the first time. Union Pacific’s legendary Big Boy No. 4014 made its local debut as part of a highly anticipated coast-to-coast tour honoring America’s 250th anniversary.
Thousands of enthusiastic railfans gathered across the region to catch a glimpse of the massive locomotive. On Sunday, a massive crowd lined the Oak Street rail crossing in Pittston Township. In a rare treat for spectators, Big Boy No. 4014 traveled side by side with the regional favorite Reading & Northern No. 2102 T-1 locomotive as the two giants made their way toward the Pittston Yard.
For those who missed the action on the tracks, the historic locomotive has moved to the Steamtown National Historic Site in Scranton. It will be featured in a special public display. Because of massive expected crowds, advance timed-entry viewing tickets are strictly required through the National Park Service, and no walk-up tickets will be available. For ticketing information and safety guidelines, visitors can head over to nps.gov.
