Built in December 1944 by the American Locomotive Company (ALCo) Union Pacific 844 holds the distinction of being the last new steam locomotive purchased by Union Pacific, wrapping up a legacy of big steam on the UP. 844 also holds the distinction of having never been retired off Union Pacific's roster. Today the World War II vintage ALCo can still command a crowd, pulling the attention of those standing trackside away from many of today's distractions. Pausing in Greeley, CO Union Pacific's steam crew services the big FEF-3 as crowds of on-lookers surround the locomotive. For some this is their first encounter with a living, breathing steam locomotive while other folks relay stories about their first encounter with the famous 4-8-4. It is unlikely any of the ALCo workers who assembled the 844 back in 1944 would have believed the locomotive would still be around, let alone running, into the 21st century. Thanks to the Union Pacific and their steam crew however the 844 will continue to draw large crowds of admirers, creating new memories and experiences for those lucky enough to experience this piece of history in person.
