Frank Carlson Library

Follow Union Pacific's steam locomotive #3985, "the world's largest operating steam locomotive" also called the "Challenger," in Wyoming, Nebraska, Iowa, Missouri and Illinois as she shows the public what big steam was really like.

Archival films cover the history and development of the railroad industry in the United States, from the building of the first transcontinental line to the eventual triumph of diesel over steam.

Describes the history and uses of steam locomotives, the different types, and some famous models.

Less than 50 years ago, trains were routinely hauled by majestic steam-powered locomotives. These magnificent machines still exercise a powerful hold on our imagination, conjuring up the romance of old fashioned rail travel and the excitement of human ingenuity pitted against the challenges of narrow passes, tight bends and fearsome gradients. Although the heyday of steam has passed, it is still possible to travel on preserved lines, heritage railways...

In today's modern operation of the Union Pacific railroad, there lies a niche of operational history, which includes 4-8-4 Northern 844 and 4-6-6-4 Challenger 3985. Thundering out of Cheyenne, Wyoming, these magnificent machines travel across the plains and mountains of the west to the delight of millions of people. Come along with the steam crew to experience all the power and excitement of today's Union Pacific Challenger 3985.