A WONDERFUL BEGINNING TO OCTOBER AT TVRM — STEAM ENGINE 4501 PREPARES FOR SUMMERVILLE

A Powerful Start to October at TVRM

As autumn colors begin to blanket the Tennessee Valley, there’s no better way to welcome the season than with the sight and sound of Southern Railway 4501. At the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM), steam is once again alive and rolling as this beloved locomotive undergoes her final checks at Grand Junction Station before heading south to Summerville, Georgia.

For generations, steam engines have captivated the hearts of railfans and families alike. At TVRM, each ride aboard 4501 is a connection to the enduring legacy of American railroading.

Steam, Steel, and Southern Craftsmanship

Inside the Soule Shops at East Chattanooga, precision meets passion. Here, skilled craftsmen inspect every valve, bearing, and boiler tube to ensure 4501 performs at her best. Built in 1911 by the Baldwin Locomotive Works, 4501’s story begins with hauling freight across the Southeast, then leading the rebirth of a modern steam preservation movement.

Every October, these meticulous preparations culminate in a living experience that visitors can see, hear, and feel. The hiss of steam, the clang of the fireman’s shovel, and the unmistakable whistle mark the continuation of a century-old legacy that TVRM proudly preserves.

A Ride Through History

The Summerville Steam Special departs from Chattanooga and winds through the ridges and rolling farmlands of North Georgia. Passengers settle into vintage coaches, the same type of cars that once carried travelers across the South during the golden age of rail travel.

The route passes historic bridges, river crossings, and small-town depots — reminders of the railroads that built communities and shaped commerce. As the train climbs toward Summerville, steam enthusiasts and first-time riders alike are treated to rhythmic cadence of 4501 at work.

Each trip invites riders to slow down, reconnect, and rediscover the wonder of classic train travel.

Soule Shops: Where Tradition Meets Innovation

Behind every successful steam weekend stands a dedicated team at Soule Shops, TVRM’s state-of-the-art restoration and mechanical facility. This is where history is maintained, rebuilt, and brought to life — one wrench turn at a time.

From reconditioning dining cars to refurbishing intricate mechanical parts, Soule Shops ensures that every locomotive operates safely and authentically. It’s also a training ground for the next generation of railroaders, continuing TVRM’s educational mission to preserve rail heritage for future generations.

October at TVRM: More Than Just Steam

Fall is one of the most magical times to visit the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum. Beyond the Summerville Steam Special, guests can enjoy a full calendar of events:

• 🍂 Missionary Ridge Local — a one-hour family-friendly ride with a turntable demonstration.

• 🍽️ Dinner on the Diner — a vintage dining experience aboard restored Southern Railway cars.

• ☕ Homefront Tea Room — step back into the 1940s for an elegant afternoon tea in our Grand Junction Depot.

Whether you’re a lifelong railfan or visiting Chattanooga for the first time, TVRM offers a variety of experiences to capture the spirit of rail travel and the beauty of Tennessee in autumn.

FAQ: Everything You Need to Know

1. When does the Summerville Steam Special run?

Select weekends in October and November. Visit tvrail.com/train-rides/summerville-steam-special for current dates and tickets.

2. How long is the ride?

The full round-trip ride to Summerville, GA lasts approximately 9 hours, including a layover for lunch and local shopping.

3. What locomotive is featured?

Steam Engine 4501, a Baldwin-built Mikado-type locomotive, is scheduled to lead most fall trips, subject to maintenance and weather conditions.

Preserving the Past — Inspiring the Future

TVRM’s mission has always been to preserve, restore, and operate vintage railway equipment for the education and enjoyment of the public. Steam 4501 represents not only mechanical ingenuity but also the spirit of a community dedicated to keeping rail heritage alive.

So as October begins, the whistle of 4501 once again echoes through the valley inviting guests to experience the excitement that comes from engaging with our rail history.

Book Your Ride Today

Experience the excitement of steam railroading this fall. Tickets for the Summerville Steam Special and other rides are available now at tvrail.com.

Don’t miss your chance to ride the rails, relive history, and make memories that last a lifetime.