Crowds brave rain to see historic train in Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Crowds braved the rain Monday to catch a glimpse of a historic locomotive traveling across the country as part of America's 250th birthday celebration.

Union Pacific's Big Boy No. 4014, the world's largest operating steam locomotive, drew rail enthusiasts and history buffs to University City.

People began lining Market Street about 90 minutes before the train arrived to get a closer look at the massive locomotive.

"I've been a train fan for my entire life, since about the third grade, and what better way to celebrate than coming here on the 250th to see the world's largest steam locomotive," said Bennett Haddad of Chapin, South Carolina.

The locomotive is making stops across the region as part of a nationwide tour commemorating the nation's semiquincentennial.

Big Boy is now headed toward central Pennsylvania and is expected to pass through Lebanon County on Tuesday.