Last Steam Locomotive Built for Union Pacific Pulls Cheyenne Frontier Days Special Train

Onboard No. 844. – Thousands of people have lined the route as Union Pacific Railroad’s No. 844, the last steam locomotive built for Union Pacific, travels along Colorado’s Front Range to and from Cheyenne to celebrate railroad history and heritage.

“Union Pacific’s historical ties run deep in Colorado and Wyoming and it is only fitting we pull such a special train to help celebrate Cheyenne Frontier Days with such a historically significant steam locomotive,” said Dick Hartman, Union Pacific’s director – public affairs for Wyoming and Colorado.

“The crowds along the route have been tremendous and we sincerely appreciate those who have taken the time to come and experience a part of Union Pacific’s heritage,” said Steve Lee, Union Pacific’s manager – operating practices and one of No. 844’s engineers.

No. 844, also known as Union Pacific’s “Living Legend,” returned to service in 2005 after one of the most extensive steam locomotive overhauls in the United States since the 1950s. The work began in 2000 and nearly every part was overhauled including its running gear, pumps, piping, valves and springs, along with replacement of its firebox and extensive boiler work. No. 844 was built and delivered to Union Pacific Railroad in 1944. A high-speed passenger engine, it pulled such widely known trains as the Overland Limited, Los Angeles Limited, Portland Rose and Challenger.

When diesel-electric locomotives took over all passenger train duties, No. 844 was placed in freight service in Nebraska between 1957 and 1959. It was saved from being scrapped in 1960 and held for special service.