Union Pacific Railroad is the only surviving major railroad that still regularly operates Steam locomotives. While other steam engines are operated through muesums and historical societies, and depend on donations and volunteers to keep operating, Union Pacific has a full time crew to maintain and operate two complete steam excursion trains.
Earlier this year, Union Pacific’s 844 graced Houston with an appearance, and Challenger 3985 has passed this way a couple of times in recent years.
Union Pacific 844 parked at Houston's Downtown Amtrak Station
I have had the opportunity to see both of these locomotives, and even have footage (somewhere) of 3985 passing at 70 MPH. While trains are common around and through Houston, nothing compares to the sheer raw power of these locomotives.
Most people alive today probably don’t remember these locomotives prior to their replacement by diesel in the 1950’s.
Today, Union Pacific presents the opportunity for the average railfan to tell them where to bring one of these beautiful pieces of machinery. By clicking on the links above or below in this article, you will be redirected to Union Pacific’s Great Excursion Adventure website, where you can vote for the city of your choice to receive a visit from one of these locomotives.
Inspire your childeren, inspire yourself. Journey back with the Union Pacific to the time when America was filled with dreamers that revolutionized industry and the world. Invite them to your town, and if they come, show your family the power of the past.
