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Quick Details
The mission of the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) is to collect for preservation, operation, interpretation, and display railroad artifacts in an authentic setting to educate the public concerning the role of railroads in the history and development of our region.
In Chattanooga, a small group of local residents who were passionate about preserving the history of American railroads founded the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum in 1961. They purchased steam engines and passenger cars that the railroads were planning to scrap, which marked the beginning of the museum.
TVRM’s collections were expanded by donations from railroads like the Southern Railway, who donated obsolete railcars and the original East Tennessee, Virginia, and Georgia roadbed, which the museum could operate on. TVRM’s passenger trains travel on the historic route, which includes the Missionary Ridge Tunnel that was built in 1858 and is on the National Register of Historic Places.
TVRM preserves railroad equipment not only to conserve machines, but also to provide an experience that educates visitors on the importance of the railroad industry and its role in creating the modern world.
Memberships are only for those who’d like to volunteer at Tennessee Valley Railroad. Click here to learn more about volunteering with us.
Interested in supporting us but would rather not volunteer? Try our annual pass instead!
Members enjoy exclusive benefits and access. Choose the membership level that’s right for you:
Become an annual pass holder! Members enjoy exclusive benefits and access. Choose the membership level that’s right for you.
This summer, kids can enjoy a fun and exciting Railroad Summer Camp! With activities like train rides and arts and crafts, this camp is sure to be a blast for kids of all ages.