Union Pacific Railroad

Union Pacific Railroad was chartered by the Pacific Railroad Act of 1862, signed by President Abraham Lincoln. The railroad played a crucial role in connecting the eastern United States to the Pacific coast, meeting the Central Pacific at Promontory Summit, Utah, on May 10, 1869, to complete the first transcontinental railroad.

Throughout the 20th century, Union Pacific became known for innovative motive power, including the legendary Big Boy 4-8-8-4 articulated steam locomotives—the largest steam engines ever built. The railroad also pioneered streamlined passenger service with trains like the City of Los Angeles and City of Portland.

Today, Union Pacific is one of the two major Class I railroads serving the western United States, having absorbed numerous railroads including Southern Pacific, Missouri Pacific, Western Pacific, and Chicago & North Western. The modern UP operates one of the most efficient freight networks in North America.

For modelers, Union Pacific offers tremendous variety—from steam-era operations through modern intermodal. The distinctive Armour Yellow paint scheme with red and gray accents is instantly recognizable and well-served by manufacturers in all scales.