Big Boy 4014 and a Grandfather’s Gift by Matt Fisher

The Wall Street Journal recently published an article titled "A Locomotive Named Big Boy Is Making Grown Men Cry" (July 22, 2026), about the 1.2-million-pound steam locomotive that has captivated crowds as it travels across the country. Known as Big Boy 4014, it is one of only eight surviving Union Pacific Big Boy locomotives—and the only one still in operation.

Kevin Lewis of Colorado and his grandfather have lots of train stories, especially since his grandfather, Charles Gifford, worked for Baltimore and Ohio Railroad for 44 years, and Kevin is an avid trainspotter.

I asked Kevin if the Big Boy 4014 makes him cry and this is his story:

“Ok, yes, but I have an excuse. Back in 2012 or so, one Christmas my grandfather gave me an HO scale Big Boy. This is a detailed miniature version. I had no idea what inspired him to do so; granted, we did go around and see all the Big Boys that were on display in museums.

My grandfather says, ‘Here’s something to remember me by after I’m gone’ (don’t ever say that to your kids if you give them a present!)”

Fast forward to 2015. Union Pacific Railroad announces they’re going to go look at the remaining 8 Big Boys and determine which one is the best candidate for restoration.

So, they pick the one in Los Angeles, and they start towing him to Cheyenne, WY.  Kevin says, “I’m watching it online, and I see it’s 4014. So, I get up and walk to the other room to see where my model was to determine which number it had. Sure enough—my model is of Big Boy 4014!”

Kevin’s grandfather passed away at the age of 100 six months before the restoration began! So, when Kevin sees Big Boy 4014 – yes, he does cry a little.

Photo: Kevin and his grandfather, Charles, on the caboose he worked on.