Union Pacific Unveils Lincoln Locomotive in Springfield Birthday Tribute

Union Pacific Railroad celebrated its 163rd birthday by honoring President Abraham Lincoln, who signed the Pacific Railway Act in 1862, authorizing the construction of the nation’s first transcontinental railroad. The celebration featured the debut of Union Pacific’s Lincoln commemorative locomotive, No. 1616, painted in colors inspired by the historic No. 119 engine from the 1869 Golden Spike ceremony, and displayed in Lincoln’s hometown of Springfield, Illinois. The event, attended by local officials and dignitaries including Mayor Misty Buscher and Illinois Railroad Association President Tim Butler, also designated Springfield as an official “Train Town USA” community. Union Pacific leaders emphasized Lincoln's visionary role in uniting the nation through railroads and the continued importance of rail in America’s economy. The locomotive serves as a traveling ambassador for Union Pacific, symbolizing the railroad’s historic and ongoing contribution to national prosperity. Community leaders and employees who contributed to the locomotive's repainting were also recognized for their efforts in commemorating Lincoln’s legacy.