The Union Pacific Railroad

The Union Pacific Railroad is the oldest railroad, in the United States, that is still in operation. It is the nation's largest railroad freight company. The line spans 32,100 miles, and covers 23 states. The Union Pacific was charted in 1862, as part of the Pacific Railroad Act. Along with the Central Pacific Railroad, it made up the Transcontinental Railroad. The Railroad was primarily constructed by Irish Immigrant workers. The first president and largest stockholder of the company was Dr. Thomas Durant. The town Durant, Iowa was named in his honor. The original headquarters of the company were located in New York City, but were eventually relocated to Omaha, Nebraska where they remain today. The Union Pacific offered both passenger and freight service, from its inception, until 1971. In 1971, passenger service was discontinued, due to low demand, and the rise of Amtrak. Today the Union Pacific offers excursions through their depot located in Cheyenne, Wyoming. These excursions are led by the historic 844 steam locomotive. Currently, preservation efforts are under way to restore the 4014 "Big Boy" steam locomotive for excursion service. The Union Pacific operates a total of fourteen freight yards in states such as Texas, Nebraska, and California. A total of 42,884 people are employed by Union Pacific, making the company one of the largest employers in the nation. The Union Pacific Railroad Museum, located in Cheyenne, Wyoming is home to railroad and company memorabilia. Also located in Cheyenne, is the Union Pacific roundhouse and steam shop, where the historic 844 and 4014 steam locomotives are housed. One should always be able to tell the difference in a Union Pacific locomotive and one from a different company, due to their iconic yellow paint schemes. The Union Pacific Railroad is one of the United States' greatest success stories. They are truly an iconic brand.

This map shows the expansive network of the Union Pacific Railroad.

An early photo of a Union Pacific passenger train.

Union Pacific Headquarters in Omaha, Nebraska.

The 4014 "Big Boy" steam locomotive hauling freight.

The 844 steam locomotive on an excursion trip.

A modern Union Pacific diesel locomotive.

Stay tuned next week for the next installment of Moore Historical Consulting's Throwback Thursday series. Be sure to go check out the section of the blog devoted to the company, and put me to work for you!!