Ogden Calls 48 Volunteers for Big Boy Locomotive Event

When Union Pacific's massive Big Boy No. 4014 locomotive pulls into Ogden on April 18, it won't just bring railroad history. It will bring neighbors together to share something special with the world.

Ogden Union Station put out a call for 48 volunteers to help manage the crowds expected during the historic locomotive's two-day visit. By midday the next day, 40 spots were already filled.

"The community is really excited and engaged with this event," said Hope Eggett, museum administrator for the Museums at Union Station. She expects tens of thousands of visitors over the April 18-19 weekend.

Volunteers don't need any special skills or experience. They just need to be over 18 and bring a friendly attitude to help greet guests, give directions, and keep the celebration running smoothly.

The Big Boy No. 4014 is one of the world's largest steam locomotives, drawing massive crowds wherever it travels on its nationwide tour. This April marks its return to Ogden, where it previously visited in 2024.

During the visit, Union Station will open all its museums free to the public, giving families a deeper look at the region's railroad heritage. The Grand Lobby will feature model train displays from the Hostlers Model Railroad Club, along with coloring pages for young train enthusiasts.

Union Pacific is adding another layer of community good to the event by collecting items for the Utah Food Bank during both days.

The Ripple Effect

What started as a need for crowd management turned into a portrait of community pride. Residents are volunteering their weekend to help strangers experience their city's history and railroad legacy.

The rapid volunteer response shows how eager people are to contribute when given the chance to share something meaningful. These volunteers will be the welcoming faces for visitors from across the country, turning a train display into a celebration of regional heritage and hospitality.

The event also creates a bridge between generations, with historic steam technology inspiring wonder in an age of electric trains and modern transit.

The Big Boy will be on display from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on April 18 and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on April 19, with volunteer shifts available throughout both days.

When communities come together to share their heritage, everyone leaves richer than they arrived.