06/02/2026
🚂 SPECIAL COMMUNITY EVENT: VIEWING PARTY FOR UNION PACIFIC "BIG BOY" No. 4014 🚂
The Village of Depew is excited to announce a unique opportunity for residents and railroad enthusiasts alike!
On Thursday, June 11, 2026, between approximately 9:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m., the legendary Union Pacific Railroad "Big Boy" Steam Locomotive No. 4014 will depart the Buffalo area following a two-day promotional stop as part of its historic journey from the West Coast to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in celebration of America 250.
As the world's largest operating steam locomotive travels along the Norfolk Southern Railroad tracks through Depew, the Village has organized a special community viewing party at the Village of Depew Municipal Building, 85 Manitou Street, providing what we believe will be one of the area's best vantage points to witness this once-in-a-lifetime spectacle.
This event was created after gauging the tremendous public interest surrounding Big Boy's visit. Given the likelihood that the area surrounding Gould Avenue, Penora Street, Manitou Street, and St. James Street would attract large crowds regardless, Village officials felt it was important to provide a safe and organized location where residents and visitors can gather to enjoy what may only be a brief 60-second viewing opportunity.
Last week, representatives from the Depew Police Department, Office of Emergency Management, Depew Volunteer Fire Department, Depew Community Center, and The Vine Wesleyan Church met to discuss measures to enhance pedestrian safety, reduce vehicle congestion, and maintain access for those conducting business at Village Hall, the Community Center, and the Church.
The Village Board also recognized the historical significance of this event for our community. The Village of Depew was founded and incorporated on July 23, 1894, largely because of the railroad industry that helped build our community. Chauncey Depew and the New York Central Railroad established what would become the Village, attracting major businesses such as National Car Wheel Works, Gould Coupler Works, Union Car Company, American Brass, and numerous other rail-related manufacturers. By 1900, thousands of workers were employed in Depew's thriving railroad and industrial operations, helping shape the community we know today.
It is fitting that a locomotive as historic and iconic as Big Boy #4014 will pass through a community whose roots are so deeply connected to America's railroad heritage.
About Big Boy No. 4014
Union Pacific's famed Big Boy No. 4014 is the world's largest operating steam locomotive. This summer marks its first-ever journey to the East Coast as part of a historic coast-to-coast tour celebrating America's 250th anniversary. The tour includes a Fourth of July appearance in Philadelphia, major display events in eight cities, and more than 50 whistle stops across 10 states, including first-time visits to Indiana, Ohio, New York, and Pennsylvania.
We invite residents, families, railroad enthusiasts, and visitors to join us for this memorable event as we celebrate both America's railroading legacy and Depew's proud railroad history.
parking, traffic, and event information is included in this post.
🚂 We look forward to seeing you on June 11th!
