Union Pacific Commemorates Heritage with the Launch of Lincoln Locomotive No. 1616

On April 30, 2025, Union Pacific Railroad celebrated a significant milestone with the unveiling of the Abraham Lincoln commemorative locomotive No. 1616 at a ceremony in North Little Rock, Arkansas. This event was attended by notable dignitaries, including Arkansas Lt. Governor Leslie Rutledge, North Little Rock Mayor Terry Hartwick, and Lincoln Presidential Foundation Chairman Emeritus Sergio “Satch” Pecori, alongside Union Pacific executives and railroad employees. The locomotive pays tribute to President Abraham Lincoln’s pivotal role in uniting the nation through the establishment of the railroad system.

Union Pacific CEO Jim Vena articulated the importance of Lincoln’s vision when he stated, “Union Pacific exists because President Abraham Lincoln wasn’t afraid to ask, ‘What’s Possible?’” This sentiment underscores the railroad's commitment to delivering essential goods to American households and businesses, highlighting the profound impact Lincoln's initiatives had on the nation's economic landscape. The Pacific Railway Act, signed by Lincoln in 1862, laid the groundwork for Union Pacific and catalyzed the development of the transcontinental railroad, which transformed the movement of goods across the United States.

Railroads are integral to the U.S. economy, influencing a wide array of industries, including vehicles, chemicals, energy, agriculture, and more. Union Pacific’s workforce of over 30,000 employees plays a critical role in transporting vital commodities, ranging from construction materials like lumber and drywall to agricultural products such as corn and wheat. This extensive network not only supports local economies but also connects communities across the 23 states in which Union Pacific operates.

Locomotive No. 1616 features a unique paint scheme inspired by the colors of Lincoln’s era, serving as a homage to locomotive No. 119. This historic locomotive was present at Promontory Summit, Utah, during the completion of the first transcontinental railroad in 1869, which symbolically united the eastern and western United States. The meticulous design work was carried out at Union Pacific’s Downing B. Jenks Locomotive Shop in North Little Rock, showcasing the craftsmanship of Union Pacific’s dedicated employees.

The Lincoln locomotive is set to serve as a traveling ambassador for Union Pacific, with its first public appearance scheduled for May 10 at the Oregon Rail Heritage Center in Portland, Oregon, coinciding with National Train Day. As Union Pacific finalizes additional stops along its route, details will be made available on the company’s website and social media platforms, inviting communities to engage with this piece of history.

Union Pacific’s unveiling of the Lincoln locomotive No. 1616 is not just a celebration of its rich history but also a reaffirmation of the company's commitment to serving the American public and economy. As the locomotive embarks on its journey, it will remind everyone of the transformative power of railroads and the enduring legacy of Abraham Lincoln in shaping the nation's infrastructure.

For more information about Union Pacific and its operations, please visit www.up.com.