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Tennessee Valley Railroad News

Historic Preservation

At the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, historic preservation is not just a term; it’s a living testament to the enduring spirit of the railroads that shaped our nation. Dive into this category to journey through time, where meticulously restored locomotives and railcars tell tales of innovation, ambition, and the romance of the rails. From the intricate details of engineering feats to the stories of the people who worked on these iron giants, we’re dedicated to keeping history alive and ensuring that future generations can witness the magic of the past.

SW8 #2000’s Stunning New Look Unveiled!

Revitalizing History: Former Army SW8 #2000’s New Paint Job There’s a fresh coat of history on the tracks! The former Army SW8 #2000 locomotive has undergone a remarkable transformation, receiving a stunning new paint job as it prepares to serve at the facility of our latest customer. This locomotive, seasoned by years of diligent service…

A Festive Throwback: TVRM’s 1976 “SMOKE & CINDERS”

Nostalgia on Rails: A Glimpse into TVRM’s Festive Past A special thanks to John for sharing a piece of the past that binds us all together, even as we move ahead at diverging speeds. As 2020 draws to a close, it’s a moment to look back, reminisce, and appreciate the history that brought us here….

Ride to the North Pole: Christmas Train Magic

Journey to the North Pole: A Magical Train Adventure All aboard for a ride of a lifetime! As the festive season dawns, trains transform into magical carriages whisking riders away on an unforgettable journey to the North Pole. Amidst the cozy confines of the carriage, passengers are pampered with delicious refreshments and heartwarming storytelling sessions….

A Glorious Journey: From Nancy Hanks II to the North Pole Limited – The Tale of Car 390

Stepping back in time, few could predict the storied life that Car 390 would lead. Built in 1947 by American Car and Foundry, this remarkable railway carriage first served the Central of Georgia’s famed train “the Nancy Hanks II”. As of recent, it is set to grace the tracks again in its original Central of…

TVRM’s Preservation Efforts During the Pandemic

Progress During a Pandemic: Preserving Railroad History The allure of train travel from days gone by isn’t just about the locomotives and their crews. It’s also about the little details, the props that paint a vivid picture of a bygone era. From milk cans on station platforms to vintage vehicles, every piece tells a story….

The Priceless Craft of Coach Restoration

The Intricacies and Costs of Restoring a Classic Coach When we speak about restoration, often the image conjured up is that of an artist delicately refreshing a faded painting. However, in the world of transportation, restoration takes on an entirely new dimension. Restoring a classic coach isn’t just about bringing an old piece of machinery…

Remembering Grady Ragan: A TVRM Luminary

In Memory of Grady Ragan: A TVRM Legend It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Grady Ragan, a stalwart of the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM), on June 26, 2020. In tribute, the iconic 4501 proudly dons black flags in his honor today. Grady wasn’t just an employee; he was part…

A Historic Return: TVRM Welcomes Office Car No. 21 After 42 Years

A Historic Return: TVRM Welcomes Office Car No. 21 After 42 Years The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) is a place where history comes alive, where every rail car has a story to tell, and where memories of a bygone era are preserved for future generations. This week, we are thrilled to announce the return…

Historic Office Car Returns to TVRM: A Journey from St. Louis to Chattanooga

Historic Office Car Returns to TVRM: A Journey from St. Louis to Chattanooga For those planning a road trip or simply commuting along Interstates 64, 57, or 24 between the vibrant city of St. Louis and the scenic Chattanooga this weekend, it’s essential to be vigilant. The forecast suggests potential inclement weather, which might make…

2020 Photo Contest Winners & 2021 Submissions Open

We are thrilled to announce the winners of our 2020 Photo Calendar contest! A heartfelt congratulations to all who participated and made the judges’ decision incredibly challenging. Your submissions were nothing short of inspiring, and we truly appreciate your effort and passion in capturing the essence of our subject matter. As we celebrate your stunning…