Historic Big Boy Locomotive Captivates Hundreds

On Tuesday, June 2, 2026, hundreds of spectators lined the tracks in Sterling, Illinois, to catch a glimpse of Union Pacific's Big Boy 4014 steam locomotive. The world's largest operating steam locomotive was on its first coast-to-coast journey, celebrating the U.S.'s 250th anniversary. Mayor Diana Merdian, a long-time train enthusiast, was present and expressed her excitement, having actively campaigned for the train to make a stop in Sterling for over five years.

The stop was granted as a 15-minute whistle stop, a significant achievement after the train only passed through without stopping in 2019. Sterling Main Street and the city organized activities, including coloring books and food trucks, while rail fans traveled from various locations to witness the historic engine. Brian John Palm, a second-generation train fan, traveled from River Forest to photograph the locomotive and follow its route through Illinois.

This visit marks a significant event for Sterling, with Mayor Merdian securing an additional 15 minutes for the stop as part of the America 250 tour. The Big Boy 4014 is continuing its journey east towards Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, for a July 4th event before beginning its return trip.