Featured Exhibits

Calling all Thomas the Tank Engine fans and families! The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) is thrilled to announce the Day Out With Thomas event, and the countdown has begun. With April 23rd fast approaching, this is your last chance to grab tickets for a memorable day filled with fun, play, and adventure. Ride, Play…

Pullman Porters: Catalysts of Change in U.S. Railways In the golden age of American passenger railway service, luxury sleeping cars spelled elegance and sophistication, with the name “Pullman” becoming almost synonymous with such opulence. As passengers luxuriated in comfort, it was the Pullman Porters, primarily African-American men, who maintained the high standards of service that…

Revitalizing Railway History: The Restoration of Dining Car 899, “Silver Lake” Nestled within the heart of our advanced restoration and repair facility in East Chattanooga lies a magnificent emblem of history – Dining Car 899, fondly known as the “Silver Lake.” Constructed in 1954 by the renowned Pullman-Standard, this dining car was initially a proud…

Reuniting for the Festive Season: A Memorable Gathering After a long gap since 2019, Wednesday, December 14, marked a special day for us. The room buzzed with excitement and the warm chatter of familiar voices. As we came together to celebrate the festive season, the joy was palpable, a reminder of the precious moments we…

The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) is excited to announce the acquisition of two EMD F7 locomotives, numbers 576 and 578, from the United Railroad Historical Society of New Jersey. This acquisition not only adds to our rich collection but also ensures the preservation of two valuable pieces of railway history. A Journey from Mississippi…

Christmas Shopping at TVRM: A Festive Train Lover’s Paradise! It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM), we’re embracing the festive spirit in full swing! For those who have a passion for locomotives or are seeking that unique gift for a loved one, TVRM is the place…

In the midst of World War II, the role of the railroad was pivotal in ways that may surprise you. Beyond transporting civilians and goods, railroads like the Southern Railway stepped onto the front lines. They sponsored Railway Operating Battalions, an initiative that was critical for the Allied forces’ success. The Southern Railway’s 727th Railway…

Railroads are woven into the fabric of America’s history, and they have been shaped by countless individuals dedicated to their craft. Among those, a figure stands out in the world of railroading: Mr. Harvey Blassingame, a retired CSX conductor and our very own “Living Legend.” A Lifetime on the Rails Harvey’s love affair with the…

Autumn Train Adventures in East Tennessee Autumn in East Tennessee is nothing short of magical. The landscape is painted with a mesmerizing palette of fall colors, and the crisp cool temperatures add to the charm. This weekend, there’s an added reason to venture outdoors and soak in the enchanting views: two captivating train rides that…

TVRM’s Tribute: Marines Guarding U.S. Mail in the 1920s The 1920s, often referred to as the “Roaring 20s”, was a decade filled with excitement, jazz, flappers, and immense cultural shifts. But beyond the music and dance, the decade holds a significant place in the annals of railroad history. The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) is…