NC&STL 710 LEADS ONE OF TVRM’S LONGEST CHICKAMAUGA TURNS
NC&StL 710 Leads One of TVRM’s Longest Chickamauga Turns
On a crisp morning in Chattanooga, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) embarked on one of its longest Chickamauga Turn excursions to date. Leading the journey was the venerable NC&StL 710, a diesel locomotive with a storied past, while the rear was graced by the elegantly restored C&O 1877 dome observation car. This six-hour round trip offered passengers not just a ride, but a voyage through time, showcasing the enduring legacy of American railroading.
The Journey Begins: NC&StL 710 at the Helm
The Nashville, Chattanooga & St. Louis Railway’s GP7 No. 710, built in 1950, is a testament to mid-20th-century engineering. After decades of service and subsequent restoration, it now serves as a rolling ambassador of the region’s rich rail history. Its presence on the Chickamauga Turn symbolizes a bridge between past and present, pulling passengers along tracks that have witnessed countless stories over the years.
A View from the Top: Inside the C&O 1877 Dome Car
Bringing up the rear, the Chesapeake & Ohio 1877 dome observation car offers passengers panoramic views of the passing landscapes. Originally constructed in 1947 by the Budd Company for the ill-fated “Chessie” streamliner, the car found new life through meticulous restoration efforts. Its unique design, featuring forward-slanted windows and dual-glass construction, was tailored for the tighter clearances of Eastern rail routes. Today, it stands as a moving monument to the golden age of rail travel.
Highlights of the Chickamauga Turn
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Departure Point: Grand Junction Station, Chattanooga
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Destination: Chickamauga, Georgia
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Duration: Approximately 6 hours round trip
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Layover: 90 minutes to explore local attractions, including the Gordon-Lee Mansion and Crawfish Springs
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Onboard Experience: Options range from standard coach seating to first-class accommodations in the dome observation car, complete with complimentary refreshments for premium ticket holders
FAQs
- What makes the NC&StL 710 significant?
- The NC&StL 710 is a GP7 diesel locomotive that played a crucial role in transitioning American railroads from steam to diesel power. Its preservation and operation by TVRM allow enthusiasts to experience a pivotal piece of rail history firsthand.
- How was the C&O 1877 restored?
- The C&O 1877 underwent extensive restoration at TVRM’s Soule Shops, where craftsmen revived its mid-century elegance, ensuring modern safety standards while preserving its historical integrity.
- What can visitors do during the Chickamauga layover?
- Passengers can explore the historic town of Chickamauga, visit the Gordon-Lee Mansion, enjoy local dining, and stroll through areas rich in Civil War history.