Historic Preservation

Today for “Throwback Thursday,” Southern Railway 630 leads a TVRM Missionary Ridge Local trip out of East Chattanooga in the mid-1980s.  Though clothing styles have changed since the 80s, you can still experience the same nostalgia of historic steam and passenger equipment with the Southern 630 from 1904 leading our Missionary Ridge Local excursions this…

Come out and join us as we celebrate 62+ years of railroad preservation! Special Events throughout the day: Special Photo Exhibit in the lobby of Grand Junction Depot: “Steam in the Valley, TVRM’s Early Years” by John Coniglio On the grounds “history interpretation” will represent Military encampment and demonstrations. Also on display – a few…

Few can boast the timeless allure and charm of a steam locomotive. But when that very locomotive shares screen space with Hollywood luminaries, the tale turns legendary. From Tracks to Reels The year was 1971. Southern Railway No. 4501, a locomotive steeped in history, transcended its traditional track boundaries. It was cast alongside James Maitland…

Many visitors are familiar with the museum’s flagship locomotive 4501, and although it continues in operation at TVRM much as it did in the 1930s, the tender behind it was not always behind 4501. This ‘new’ tender was sourced to carry additional coal and water, in the Southern excursion era, after it was discovered on…

Last week, new batteries were installed in F7A locomotive 576, and the engine had all accessible light bulbs replaced. As a result, another major step in the locomotive’s return to service was accomplished. Once returned to service, the 576 will dethrone the 710 as the oldest operating diesel locomotive in our collection, as it was…

Chattanooga Grand Junction Station invites adventurers of all ages to embark on an unforgettable educational journey steeped in history, nature, and the unmatched charm of train travel. We welcome school and camp groups to our beautiful Tennessee station, with a range of interactive experiences that guarantee a day full of learning and fun. Tailored Group…

As the sun sets on the final days of summer, immerse yourself in the enchanting world of trains at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) in Chattanooga, TN. With a rich railway heritage dating back to the 1850s, TVRM offers a unique blend of history, adventure, and scenic beauty, making it the perfect destination to…

Soule Shops Completes Major Refurbishment of Grand Trunk Western Dining Car The renowned Soule Shops has successfully completed another significant refurbishment, this time focusing on the Grand Trunk Western dining car, numbered 899 and named the “Silver Lake”. The recent photos showcase the impressive upgrades made to the car, including: A custom 3-compartment sink A…

All Aboard the Chattanooga Choo Choo! In the gentle hum of history, there’s a melody that echoes through time—a tune synonymous with the golden age of rail travel, “The Chattanooga Choo Choo.” It’s more than a song; it’s a cultural artifact that has captured the imagination of generations. Its origins, intertwined with the rhythmic clatter…

The Origins and Evolution of the Chattanooga Choo Choo The story of the Chattanooga Choo Choo is a rich tapestry interwoven with history, music, and the transformation of a city. What began as a mere song eventually elevated Chattanooga, Tennessee, into an internationally recognized icon. Origins of the Name The Chattanooga Choo Choo initially referred…