CELEBRATE GOLDEN SPIKE DAY AT TVRM | MOTHER’S DAY WEEKEND FUN
Celebrate the 155th Golden Spike Day at TVRM
Today at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, we honor the 155th Golden Spike Day with our version of the famous photograph by A.J. Russell. The golden spike is the ceremonial, 17.6-karat gold, final spike driven by Leland Stanford to join the rails of the first transcontinental railroad across the United States, connecting the Central Pacific Railroad from Sacramento and the Union Pacific Railroad from Omaha, on May 10, 1869, at Promontory Summit, Utah.
Recreating a Historic Moment
In the first picture, our 120-year-old steam engine #630 and 74-year-old NC&StL Diesel #710 face off, paying homage to the 1869 photograph. Left to right are conductors Bo Ellis and Jason Fields.
The second photo, taken by A.J. Russell, shows the celebration following the driving of the “Last Spike” at Promontory Summit, Utah, on May 10, 1869.
Celebrate Mother’s Day at TVRM
Make plans to join us this weekend and celebrate Mom! A few spaces are still available for both The Homefront Tea Room and Mother’s Day Dinner in the Depot.
Don’t forget: Our special Mother’s Day twilight Missionary Ridge Local departs on Sunday at 8 PM. Enjoy a relaxing evening ride aboard a 120-year-old steam engine and celebrate Mom in style!
Book Now: Tickets
Location: 4119 Cromwell Road, Chattanooga, TN 37421
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What is the significance of the Golden Spike Day celebration?
Golden Spike Day marks the completion of the first transcontinental railroad across the United States. On May 10, 1869, Leland Stanford drove a ceremonial gold spike at Promontory Summit, Utah, joining the Central Pacific Railroad and Union Pacific Railroad, revolutionizing American travel and commerce.
2. What is the historical significance of Steam Engine #630 and Diesel #710?
Steam Engine #630, built in 1904 by the American Locomotive Company, is a 2-8-0 “Consolidation” type steam locomotive with a rich legacy, now restored to full operational condition. Diesel Engine #710, built in 1949 for the NC&StL Railway, represents a later era of rail transportation. Their faceoff pays homage to the 1869 Golden Spike photograph, symbolizing the enduring legacy of American railroads.
3. What are the details of the special Mother’s Day events?
- The Homefront Tea Room: Offers an elegant dining experience for Mother’s Day.
- Mother’s Day Dinner in the Depot: Features a delightful meal at the restored station.
- Mother’s Day Twilight Missionary Ridge Local: A scenic evening train ride at 8 PM.