TWO LIGHTS FOR TOMORROW: A BEACON OF LIBERTY FROM TVRM
Tonight, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum joins with institutions across the nation in honoring the birth of a revolution that shaped the world. As part of the “Two Lights for Tomorrow” initiative—an early commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary—TVRM is proud to display two lights in the upstairs window of the Grand Junction Depot, echoing the famous signal of Paul Revere’s ride in April 1775.
🕯️ “One if by Land, Two if by Sea”
The story behind this symbolic gesture takes us back to the eve of April 18, 1775, when lanterns were hung in the steeple of Boston’s Old North Church. Their purpose? To warn patriot riders like Paul Revere and William Dawes of British troop movements as they departed for Lexington and Concord. The lanterns communicated a critical message: one light if the British were coming by land, two if by sea.
What followed would ignite the American Revolution.
Why TVRM Is Participating
TVRM, long dedicated to preserving America’s transportation heritage, recognizes that our nation’s founding was driven by communication, movement, and unity—principles that railroads would later embody as they stitched the growing country together.
By participating in America 250 and the “Two Lights for Tomorrow” initiative, we reaffirm our commitment to preserving the stories, symbols, and legacies that built the United States.
🔦 A Light in the Night at Grand Junction
Tonight, if you pass by the Grand Junction Depot in Chattanooga, you’ll see two glowing lanterns in the upstairs window—just as patriots did 250 years ago. This simple act honors the spirit of independence and remembrance. It connects TVRM’s mission to educate future generations with the values that started our nation’s journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is “Two Lights for Tomorrow”?
- It’s a national remembrance project inspired by Paul Revere’s legendary ride. Organizations across the country light lanterns to symbolize the call to action that led to America’s independence.
- Why is TVRM involved in a Revolutionary War event?
- TVRM’s mission is to educate and preserve. Though the museum centers on rail history, this observance reflects a shared heritage of movement and national unity.
- Can I see the lights at Grand Junction in person?
- Yes! The lights are on display in the upstairs window of Grand Junction Depot for public viewing throughout the night.
🔗 Additional Resources
🛤️ Connecting Moments in American Memory
Just as Revere’s midnight ride sparked a revolution, railroads fueled a young nation’s expansion, providing freedom of movement, commerce, and unity across vast distances. TVRM’s mission is not just to preserve locomotives and track—it’s to preserve the stories that travel with them.
In lighting two lanterns tonight, TVRM doesn’t just remember a moment—we remember a message: That courage, communication, and community can change the course of history.