The world’s largest steam locomotive, Big Boy No. 4014, made a stop in Topeka on its Heartland of America Tour, drawing a crowd of at least 1,000 people eager to catch a glimpse of the living legend. The 83-year-old locomotive, weighing over 1.2 million pounds, has been attracting crowds of hundreds to thousands at each stop on its nine-state tour. Big Boy No. 4014 is the only one of its kind still in operation after being brought out of retirement and restored between 2013 and 2019.
The locomotive’s arrival in Topeka was met with excitement as spectators lined up along the tracks at Great Overland Station in North Topeka, some waiting for hours to see the historic train pass through town. As Big Boy No. 4014 rolled into the station, its whistle rattled the onlookers’ teeth and crews performed minor maintenance work during its 40-minute stop.
For many, the sight of Big Boy No. 4014 brought back childhood memories of trains, with one spectator driving 30 miles from Holton to witness the locomotive in action. The train’s immense size and power, producing over 6,000 horsepower, left a lasting impression on those who came to see it, with one couple planning to chase the train to its next stop in Wamego.
As the Big Boy No. 4014 continues its tour across the country, it continues to captivate audiences with its historical significance and impressive stature, reminding many of a bygone era of rail travel and American ingenuity.
Source
Photo credit kansasreflector.com