One of the United State's most famous train engines is making a stop in Watseka Next week.  The Union Pacific Railroad's 'Big Boy' locomotive is on tour.  The world's largest operational steam loco is making 'whistle stops" as it passes thru 10 states, including Illinois.

A 30-minute stop is scheduled about 5 pm Monday, September 9 at the North Street crossing in Watseka.  

The Union Pacific officials say safety is a big, important issue with these tours.  Photo sessions are allowed but visitors must stay 25 feet away from the huge engine. The 2024 Heartland of America Tour kicked off in Cheyenne, WY August 28.  It makes a run thru 10 states with scheduled stops. 

Community officials are welcome to plan their own events, as part of the RR tour.  Thousands of people are expected to line up along railroad crossings along the route to get a close-hand look at the historical engine. 

Twenty-five Big Boys were built during WW II, but only eight survived.  Big Boy No. 4014 is the only one of the eight still in operation.  It remains the world's largest operating steam locomotive. 

94.1 WGFA