OGALLALA -- Crowds gathered on a normally quiet crossing of the Union Pacific railroad anticipating the arrival of rebuilt history.

The Big Boy drew fans from Colorado's Front Range and several other states. There were children, young parents, former railroad workers and fans of trains.

The UP's No. 4014 Big Boy began the 2024 "Heartland of America Tour" on Wednesday, August 28 in Cheyenne, Wyo. It will travel across nine additional states including Arkansas, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma and Texas.

The eight-week tour concludes in late October.

The Big Boy started the day in Sidney, departing for North Platte at about 9 a.m.

The stop in North Platte is a Union Pacific employee event; no public access. From North Platte, the Big Boy is scheduled to arrive in Overton, Neb. 12 p.m. Central Time Sunday, September 1.