Spring, Texas, January 28, 2013- Jefferson, Texas, has been awarded membership in Union Pacific's Train Town USA Registry as part of Union Pacific's ongoing efforts to highlight cities with a historical connection to the railroad. The city received an official Train Town USA resolution signed by Union Pacific Chairman Jim Young in a special presentation held in front of the historic Atalanta rail car, which was once owned by famed railroad tycoon Jay Gould. Union Pacific launched its Train Town USA Registry as part of the railroad's 150th anniversary celebration in 2012. 

"We are proud to recognize Jefferson as we celebrate our growing up together," said Clint Schelbitzki, Union Pacific director - Public Affairs. "Union Pacific was founded to help connect the nation from east to west. Our shared heritage with Jefferson is a source of pride as we remember our past while delivering the goods American businesses and families use every day."

Jefferson's location on the Big Cypress Bayou made the town a desirable river port, and at one time, was the largest inland port in Texas. Leaders of the town realized the importance of railroads and the Texas and Pacific Railroad (T&P) arrived in Jefferson in 1873. In 1881, T&P was acquired by Jay Gould, who had previously gained control of Union Pacific Railroad.

Union Pacific serves nearly 7,300 communities in 23 states west of Illinois, covering 32,000 miles.

About Union Pacific

Union Pacific Railroad is the principal operating company of Union Pacific Corporation (NYSE: UNP). One of America's most recognized companies, Union Pacific Railroad links 23 states in the western two-thirds of the country by rail, providing a critical link in the global supply chain. From 2007-2012, Union Pacific invested $18 billion in its network and operations to support America's transportation infrastructure, including a record $3.7 billion in 2012. The railroad's diversified business mix includes Agricultural Products, Automotive, Chemicals, Coal, Industrial Products and Intermodal. Union Pacific serves many of the fastest-growing U.S. population centers, operates from all major West Coast and Gulf Coast ports to eastern gateways, connects with Canada's rail systems and is the only railroad serving all six major Mexico gateways. Union Pacific provides value to its roughly 10,000 customers by delivering products in a safe, reliable, fuel-efficient and environmentally responsible manner.

Union Pacific media contact:  Raquel Espinoza, 281.350.7771 or respinoza@up.com

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