The H&R Caboose Roost

06/12/2026

🚂 BIG BOY 4014 IS COMING TO MISSOURI!

If you've ever wanted to see the world's largest operating steam locomotive in person, now's your chance.

Union Pacific's legendary Big Boy No. 4014 will be making stops in Missouri, including several locations within driving distance of Fredericktown.

This isn't just another train—it's a living piece of American railroad history. Standing next to Big Boy is something you'll never forget.

We've included the closest stops and times in the graphic. Be sure to arrive early, as large crowds are expected.

Who else is planning to see Big Boy 4014?

Click here to view full schedule: https://www.up.com/aboutus/history/steam/schedule

06/11/2026

🚂 UNPLAN YOUR VACATION

Leave the schedule at the station.

Spend the weekend slowing down in a real caboose instead of racing from one attraction to the next.

📚 Read a book from the train library.
🚂 Take the Junior Conductor Challenge.
🕰️ Explore railroad memorabilia and discover pieces of history throughout the caboose.
🎲 Play cards, board games, and train trivia.
☕ Watch the sunrise from the cupola or sip coffee on the platform.

Outside, trade screens for simple pleasures:

🏸 Play badminton.
🥏 Toss a frisbee.
🎯 Challenge someone to croquet.
🔥 Roast hot dogs over the fire.
✨ Catch fireflies at dusk.
🐸 Listen to frogs, crickets, and the sounds of a Missouri evening.

Sometimes the best vacation isn't about seeing more.

It's about slowing down enough to enjoy where you are.

The destination isn't just nearby.
It's the caboose itself.

06/10/2026

🚂 Tracks & Trivia

Ever wonder why cabooses disappeared from most trains?

For decades, cabooses were an essential part of rail travel. Crews used them for paperwork, communication, storage, and watching the train from the cupola above.

But as technology improved in the 1980s — including electronic monitoring systems and better radio communication — most railroads slowly phased cabooses out of service.

Today, seeing a real caboose has become much rarer, which makes preserving pieces of railroad history like this one feel even more special. ✨

06/09/2026

🚂 Guest Highlights From Their Stay

From the adventure loft and open yard games to evenings around the firepit, this family's caboose getaway was filled with memorable moments.

They especially loved the caboose's unique charm, thoughtful touches, fresh muffins, and the peaceful setting that made them feel right at home.

Reviews like this remind us that it's often the little details that make a stay unforgettable. ❤️

06/07/2026