UP 2010 Unveiled

The UP unveiled its locomotive commemorating the centennial of the Boy Scouts of America today. The event took place at the Amtrak Depot in downtown Houston.

I had originally planned to arrive early to video the unveiling, but last-minute client needs delayed me. I arrived the Amtrak Depot about 11:45 AM, pleasantly surprised to find a parking spot easily.

Guests and media surround the 2010 shortly after its introduction on March 31, 2010

The idea to commemorate the Boy Scouts with a locomotive began with Stuart Schroeder, a UP dispatcher. Some of you may have heard Stuart on the radio. “SLS” works the Glidden sub, first trick.

The sun was fairly high, but I was able to get a few shots once the crowds dissipated.

UP 2010, shortly after its official unveiling in Houston, March 31, 2010

The dais was not removed until after the locomotive had departed, so this was the only angle available for a roster view. I did get a few detail views of the unit.

There’s been some grumbling among railfans that the unit is not all that. It’s certainly not as unique or colorful as the Heritage engines, but then what is?

My take is the UP has done more with regard to its history and heritage than all other railroads combined. Think about it- two steam engines, the Centennial, the E units, the Heritage locomotives, the Olympic engines, etc.

Thanks, Union Pacific…