description Union Pacific 844 Overview
Union Pacific No. 844 is a 4-8-4 "Northern" type steam locomotive built by the American Locomotive Company (ALCO) in 1944. Originally assigned to high-speed passenger service, it was retained by the railroad and never officially retired, making it unique among Class I railroad steam locomotives in the United States. Converted to burn oil in the 1990s, it operates today as a heritage excursion locomotive and is frequently used for public relations and special events.
insights Ranking position
Union Pacific 844 ranks #10 of 397 in the Locomotive ranking, behind Chesapeake & Ohio Allegheny, ahead of Southern Pacific GS-4 4449.
help Union Pacific 844 FAQ
Why is Union Pacific 844 historically unique among steam locomotives?
Union Pacific No. 844 is unique because it is the only Class I railroad steam locomotive that was never officially retired from active service. Built by ALCO in 1944, it has remained continuously on the UP roster for nearly 80 years.
What type of locomotive is the Union Pacific 844?
It is a 4-8-4 "Northern" type steam locomotive built by the American Locomotive Company in 1944. It was originally assigned to high-speed passenger and freight service before being saved from scrapping in 1960.
What is the primary use of Union Pacific 844 today?
Today, No. 844 serves as a public relations ambassador for the Union Pacific Railroad. It is used to pull special excursion trains for employee appreciation events, historical societies, and the general public.
Was Union Pacific 844 ever renumbered?
Yes, in the early 1960s, UP briefly renumbered the locomotive to No. 8444 to make way for a new series of gas turbine-electric locomotives that carried the 800-series numbers. It was eventually changed back to 844 after the turbines were retired.
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