Calling all train lovers! The  Union Pacific Big Boy Locomotive  will be in Abilene, Kansas on Wednesday, November 20 from 12:15 pm - 12:35 pm.

Celebrating the 150th Anniversary of the Transcontinental Railroad's Completion

Union Pacific's historic Big Boy steam locomotive No. 4014 is touring the Union Pacific system throughout 2019 to commemorate the transcontinental railroad's 150th anniversary.

The Big Boy's return to the rails is the product of more than two years of meticulous restoration work by the Union Pacific Steam Team. No. 4014 is the world's only operating Big Boy locomotive.

by The Iowa Gallivant

Never underestimate the magnitude of history that many of America's small towns have. Pair that with incredible murals, public gardens, railroad tour, a one of a kind hall of fame, and Midwest kindness; and you get Abilene, Kansas. We've covered the  local food scene  and the  Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum  in earlier posts and now we bring you to more of Abilene's beautiful and historical attractions.

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Hard work was a fact of life for Dickinson County's early settlers as they toiled from sunup to sundown, and it begs the question: Were the good old days really that good?

Everyone is invited to get a taste of pioneer life in the late 1800s and early 20th century during the 41st annual Heritage Day Festival from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday at Dickinson County Historical Society, 412 S. Campbell.

"The festival not only highlights the skills and traditions of the settlers of Dickinson County, it also gives visitors a great day of fun, food and activities," said Judy Zimmer, historical society administrator.

Rebecca Youngblood Vaughn, MD, daughter of former Secret Service Deputy Director Rufus W. Youngblood, discusses her father's memoir, "20 Years in the Secret Service." Vaughn presents her father's story, highlighting Youngblood's 20-year career. He joined the Secret Service in 1951 and protected Presidents Truman, Eisenhower, Kennedy, Johnson, and Nixon. Originally published in 1973, Vaughn republished her father's memoir honoring a man who genuinely loved his country and his role in the U.S. Secret Service during a critical period of American history. This second edition includes additional photos from a variety of archives including the Eisenhower Presidential Library.

The book is available for purchase in the gift shop. A book signing will follow Vaughn's presentation.

Join us as we dedicate the all-new exhibits at the Eisenhower Presidential Museum in Abilene, Kansas. The renovation of the entire museum exhibit space was the result of a successful five-year $12,250,000 capital campaign conducted by the Eisenhower Foundation. Donors from all 50 states contributed to this grassroots effort.

Dwight and Mamie's granddaughter and Eisenhower Foundation Board Member, Mary Jean Eisenhower, will deliver the keynote address. This outdoor ceremony is free and open to the public. Some seating will be provided and lawn chairs are welcome. Following the ribbon-cutting, the museum doors will open with free admission for the day.