The Last Steam-Powered Locomotive Purchased by Union Pacific Crosses Our Path

The Last Steam-Powered Locomotive Purchased by Union Pacific Crosses Our Path

Yesterday started like many days — with a drive — but why were all those people hanging out along the railroad tracks? Curiosity got the better of us. Turns out, the last steam-powered locomotive purchased by Union Pacific was rolling through Alamogordo on its way to Texas.

It’s now Union Pacific’s ambassador and flagship engine for special events.

The train was mainly used as a passenger-hauler back when it was in regular use. It spent its final two years in regular service hauling freight after diesel-electric locomotives took over, before being saved from the scrap heap in 1960 and held for special service.

We got some cool pictures.

Flags flapping, smoke billowing.
Flags flapping, smoke billowing.
Yes, I believe that's a thumbs-up.
Yes, I believe that's a thumbs-up.