Union Pacific 4014: Crossing The Cornfields

For the first time since her initial tours in 2019, Union Pacific 4014 returned to the Midwest with the Heartland Of America Tour, scheduled to cover nine states in eight weeks. Beginning September 2nd, the 4-8-8-4 reentered Chicago & North Western territory at Fremont Nebraska, overnighting at Council Bluffs, Boone, and Cedar Rapids on it's way to the Global III Intermodal Facility outside of Rochelle Ill, and it's "Chicago Area" display day. Though there would undoubtedly be some mania amongst all those who would be out to see the World's Largest Operating Steam Locomotive in action, I would have been a fool to pass up the opportunity to see and chase her again. And I did not regret it.
Come along as we follow the World's Largest Operating Steam Locomotive eastbound across the "Old Northwestern". From Cedar Rapids to "Flagg", across rivers and cornfields, and through small towns and mid-size cities alike, the 83 year old ALCO put on a show no matter where she went. Her matching auxiliary tenders and passenger consist brought back memories of the Streamliner Fleet, even the SD70M assigned to back her brought back a sense of nostalgia for me, and days spent at Rochelle and the Railroad Park in my childhood. Perhaps one day, she'll haul excursions for the paying public again, and I may just have the chance to ride behind her. But even, the show from on board would pale in comparison to the one from the ground, where 1.2 Million pounds of weight and 7,000 horsepower take on a whole new meaning.....

Thank you Union Pacific, Ed Dickens, and the entire UP Steam Crew for your beautiful work and bringing 4014 back to life for all to enjoy! See you all on down the line!

Enjoy everybody! There is plenty more to come!