Union Pacific unveiled its Abraham Lincoln commemorative locomotive, honoring the president who signed the bill establishing Union Pacific as part of the transcontinental railroad.
Union Pacific Chief Executive Jim Vena emphasized that Union Pacific’s existence stems from President Abraham Lincoln’s unwavering belief in the possibilities. “Our employees are the backbone of our company, moving the essential goods Americans rely on daily. We are proud of our heritage and excited to share this special locomotive with the communities and people across the 23 states where we operate,” Vena said during a ceremony in North Little Rock, Arkansas.
Attending the event were Arkansas Lt. Gov. Leslie Rutledge, North Little Rock Mayor Terry Hartwick, and Sergio Pecori, Chairman Emeritus of the Lincoln Presidential Foundation.
The color scheme of locomotive No. 1616, numbered to commemorate Lincoln’s service as the 16th president, pays homage to steam locomotive No. 119, one of the two locomotives that participated in the historic Golden Spike ceremony at Promontory Summit, Utah, in 1869. Painted at the railroad’s Downing B. Jenks Locomotive Shop in North Little Rock, the locomotive will serve as a traveling ambassador, making its first public appearance on May 10 at the Oregon Rail Heritage Center in Portland, Oregon, as part of National Train Day.
Additional details about the trip will be shared on the railroad’s website and social media platforms.
In February, Union Pacific had announced plans for another presidential diesel locomotive, honoring George H.W. Bush. This unit is now proudly displayed at the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum in College Station, Texas.
