LOVELOCK - The Union Pacific Railroad celebrates its 150th anniversary this year. As part of its celebration, the legendary steam locomotive No. 844 will travel through 15 states and make numerous stops.
The engine is on its fifth leg of the UP 150 Express and is scheduled to stop in Lovelock on Sept. 25 at the Main Street railroad crossing between 10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m.
During its short visit the public will be able to take photos of the vintage engine and talk to the engineer, according to Aaron Hunt, UP director of corporate relations and media.
On Wednesday, Sept.26, the 844 will stop in Sparks at 1 S. Pyramid Way to allow the public to tour the 1962 baggage car that has been transformed into a miniature traveling museum. The car features interactive touch screen technology that illustrates how Union Pacific supported communities as the transcontinental railroad was built. The interactive experience culminates with the modern Union Pacific Railroad, which transports goods that American businesses and consumers use every day. The engine and baggage car will be on display from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Steam Locomotive No. 844 is the last steam locomotive built for the Union Pacific Railroad. It was a high-speed passenger engine that pulled well known trains, such as the Overland Limited, Los Angeles Limited, Portland Rose and Challenger.
According to the railroad's website, www.uprr.com, steam engines were replaced with diesel engines between 1957 and 1959. No. 844 was saved from the being scrapped in 1960 and was put in special service. Since then it has made appearances at Expo '74 in Spokane, the 1981 opening of the California State Railroad Museum in Sacramento, the 1984 World's Fair in New Orleans and the 50th Anniversary Celebration of Los Angeles Union Station in 1989.
More information about the 150 years of the Union Pacific is available at www.up150.com.
[[In-content Ad]]
