Historic Preservation

Heritage Meets History at TVRM: Celebrating TAG Heritage Unit #4851 The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) is proud to host the TAG Heritage Unit #4851 for a private holiday event featuring Norfolk Southern employees. This striking locomotive, originally built in 2000, showcases the legacy of the Tennessee, Alabama & Georgia (TAG) Railway with its heritage-inspired…

When Iron Rails Kissed the River: The Day Chattanooga Changed Forever On December 1, 1849, a defining moment unfolded along the banks of the Tennessee River: a modest steam locomotive named the ALABAMA rolled into Chattanooga, carrying dignitaries and more than 200 invited guests. For many years, this community had thrived as a river outpost—its…

As the holiday season approaches, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) invites you to partake in a unique celebration that marries the elegance of a traditional tea service with the nostalgia of historic train travel. The Christmas Tea event, held in the storied Grand Junction Depot, offers an immersive experience that transports guests to a…

As the whistle echoes and steam fills the air, the 2024 Summerville Steam Special season comes to a close. It’s been an unforgettable journey marked by thrilling sights and cherished memories, culminating in a spectacular double-header event featuring two legendary engines—Steam Engines 630 and 4501. Enthusiasts, families, and history buffs gathered to witness this grand…

Trailblazer Ida Hicks: Pioneering Women in Railroading’s Legacy Did you know that women have long been integral to the success of railroading? From operations to logistics, women have contributed to this essential industry, often in ways that have gone unrecognized. For today’s Throwback Thursday, we shine a spotlight on Ms. Ida Hicks, a pioneering worker…

The Grand Junction Depot, a crucial component of the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum in Chattanooga, is set to receive much needed renovations thanks to a $67,500 Capital Maintenance and Improvements grant from the Tennessee State Museum. The grant, which is part of a broader initiative to support non-profit museums, will fund several key projects, including…

Discover Chattanooga’s Rich Rail History Aboard the Missionary Ridge Local Step back in time this weekend with a ride aboard the Missionary Ridge Local—one of Chattanooga’s most exciting and educational train experiences! Whether you’re a railroad enthusiast or just looking for a fun activity, this one-hour journey is a fantastic way to connect with the…

October Train Rides: Missionary Ridge Local & Fall Fun October is here, and with it comes crisp air, colorful leaves, and the perfect opportunity to experience the beauty of the season by train! Whether you’re a history enthusiast or just looking for a fun family outing, this weekend offers a variety of exciting train adventures…

Southern Railway 4501 Transformed: WWII & Clover Colony Ride The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) recently hosted a spectacular weekend event celebrating the return of steam and the transformation of Southern Railway 4501 into GM&O Mikado 4382. Guests were treated to an authentic WWII re-enactment, which brought history to life, and the chance to ride…

Experience Comfort and History Aboard the CLOVER COLONY On September 8th, you can enjoy a one-day exclusive ride on the CLOVER COLONY, powered by the historic Steam Locomotive 4382. This event commemorates two milestones: 75 years since the GM&O Dieselized and 30 years since the CLOVER COLONY was restored. Built in 1920, this Pullman Heavyweight…