November 17, 2011 / Modified nov 17, 2011 11:36 p.m.

On Board Historic Steam Engine No. 844

Large crowds greeted the locomotive in Tucson, as it made a whistle stop for Arizona's centennial celebration.

Union Pacific's historic steam locomotive, No. 844 rolled through Arizona this week as part of the state's centennial celebration. The engine is a favorite among railroad buffs, and it's one of the only steam locomotives still in use in the world. Union Pacific calls it their “Goodwill Ambassador,” and it draws large crowds everywhere it goes.


Including Tucson. Thousands of people visited the 844 while it was parked at the railroad yard on Veteran's Day. Another large group welcomed the train on Saturday for a special ceremony at Union Station. People even lined the train route to wave and take pictures as it passed by.


MARK DUGGAN spent some time on train No. 844 during its Tucson visit. He talked with engineer Ed Dickens about what goes into operating the train. And he recorded some close-up sounds, as the legendary iron horse pulled out of town.


Union Pacific's historic steam engine website

More on No. 844, including key specifications

Union Pacific press release about No. 844 participating in Arizona's centennial celebration






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