Roseville cheers as Big Boy gleams in rain, draws adoring crowd on UP rail tour
Union Pacific Railroad’s Big Boy No. 4014, a historic steam locomotive, arrived in Roseville, drawing visitors of all ages despite rainy weather.
The visit was part of the locomotive’s coast-to-coast tour celebrating America’s 250th anniversary, described as a “transcontinental journey that honors our nation’s growth, innovation and unity since its founding in 1776.”
Roseville Vice Mayor Karen Alvord said the train’s arrival Friday from the Railyards in Sacramento to a siding along Atlantic Street offered a moment to reflect on history. The locomotive traveled Thursday through Sutter and Placer counties, including stops in Marysville and Lincoln. In Lincoln, the city was designated an official “Train Town USA” during a brief ceremony attended by local officials and residents.
“In a fast-moving world, the Big Boy’s arrival slows us down to appreciate the craftsmanship, history and spirit that helped build communities like Roseville,” she said.
Donna Smith, an out-of-town visitor, said seeing the train in Roseville in the rain was worth it.
“When I️ left Oakdale this morning, it was sunny,” she said. “I’m glad we still came out to see the Big Boy. Hearing it whistle in the rain was a special experience.”
Visitors can tour the train for free from 1 to 5 p.m. Friday and from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday. The city also planned activities at Vernon Street Town Square from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, including a makers market and live music.
A restored baggage car traveling with the train served as a museum, featuring artifacts including an original Louisiana Purchase proclamation published in 1803 by the National Intelligencer.
Union Pacific officials said Roseville remains a key rail hub and home to many railroad employees, underscoring the city’s longstanding ties to the industry.
This story was originally published April 10, 2026 at 3:03 PM.
