Historic Preservation

Remembering Jim Wrinn: A Pillar of the Railroad Community Yesterday marked a somber day for the railroad community as we said our goodbyes to Jim Wrinn, a beacon of support, talent, and friendship. The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) deeply feels this loss. Jim wasn’t just an editor, writer, or photographer; he was an advocate…

Soule Shops Update: GP7 No. 1829 Back on Track! From the bustling grounds of Soule Shops, we bring you some behind-the-scenes news on one of our beloved locomotives, GP7 No. 1829. As with all vintage machinery, maintaining these historic trains is akin to nurturing a living piece of history. Recently, our diligent crew noticed an…

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…

Discover Rail Heritage This January with TVRM’s Vintage Train Rides! Step into a world of railway heritage this January weekend at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM). Join us for an enriching ride on the Missionary Ridge Local, powered by one of our meticulously restored vintage diesel locomotives. Riding the Missionary Ridge Local is more…

Embrace History on Rails: The Missionary Ridge Local’s Special Three-Day Run Get ready to make the most of the upcoming three-day weekend! Weather permitting, the Missionary Ridge Local will be up and running on January 15, 16, and Monday, 17th. This isn’t just a train ride; it’s a journey back in time, powered by one…

Meet the Magic Makers Behind the North Pole Limited! Every enchanted journey has its group of unsung heroes, and the North Pole Limited is no exception! Today, we offer a glimpse behind the curtains, shedding light on the hardworking TVRM team members who breathe life into this festive experience. This snapshot captures the essence of…

Embark on a Festive Adventure with the North Pole Limited! Christmas is upon us, and with its arrival comes the much-anticipated opening weekend for the North Pole Limited! This enchanting journey promises to be an unforgettable addition to your festive celebrations, and if you haven’t made it a tradition already, this year is the perfect…

Doug Karhan: A Steward of Steam’s Legacy The world of steam locomotion and railway heritage has recently bid farewell to one of its unsung heroes. Doug Karhan, a venerated master mechanic of steam for Norfolk Southern from 1982 until the end of excursions in 1994, passed away on November 11, 2021. His legacy is a…

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…

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…