Railroad History and Heritage

A Century on the Rails: The Enduring Journey of Dining Car 3164 Some railcars serve a decade and disappear. Others, like Southern Railway Dining Car 3164, span generations. Built in 1924 by the Pullman Company, Car 3164 embodies the craftsmanship and resilience of early 20th-century rail travel. For over a century, it has rolled through…

Dining in Elegance: The Journey of Southern Railway’s ‘Travelers Fare’ Dining Car Step aboard the past and experience a masterpiece of moving history—Southern Railway Dining Car No. 3158, affectionately named “Travelers Fare.” Built by the Pullman Company in 1924, this heavyweight dining car once graced the rails of premier Southern Railway passenger trains, and now…

All Aboard for a Weekend of Adventure at TVRM Looking for a memorable weekend experience? The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) offers something for everyone—from quick, engaging excursions to immersive day-long adventures through breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a family-friendly outing, TVRM’s variety of train rides…

Dining Car 3164: From Luxury to Legacy The Birth of Dining Car 3164 Dining Car 3164 rolled off the assembly line on April 24, 1925, built by the Pullman Car & Manufacturing Corporation for Southern Railway. It was a marvel of modern engineering and opulence—designed during a golden age when rail travel reigned supreme in…

Steam Season Rolls On – Come Experience It! Steam Season is in full swing, and our legendary 121-year-old steam locomotive, Southern 630, has been working hard on the Missionary Ridge Local! With all departures on Sunday, March 2 featuring this historic engine, now is the perfect time to step aboard and experience the thrill of…

Steam Season Kicks Off with a Spectacular Start! The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) kicked off Steam Season with an incredible first day! Our 121-year-old locomotive, Southern 630, proudly took center stage, demonstrating the power and elegance of steam railroading. Pictured: The Evening Ridge Runner departing Grand Junction Depot at 5 PM, carrying passengers on…

Steam Railroading is Hard Work – But Worth It! Today, TVRM fireman Travis Gordon is hard at work keeping Southern 630 running in top condition. These locomotives require daily maintenance, and every small task plays a crucial role in ensuring a smooth and safe journey for passengers. Inside the Maintenance Process 🔹 Checking Bearings –…

Steam Season is Officially Underway at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum! The wait is over—Steam Season at TVRM has begun! This morning, our 121-year-old steam locomotive, Southern 630, made its grand entrance at Grand Junction, pulling the first Missionary Ridge Local train of the season. The rhythmic chug of the engine, the hiss of steam,…

Welcome to Steam Season at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum! A beautiful weekend is ahead, and we’re kicking off Steam Season in style! If you’re looking for an authentic railroading adventure, now is the perfect time to climb aboard. Featured Rides This Weekend: Missionary Ridge Local – All departures powered by the legendary Southern 630…

A Historic Film, A Historic Railroad The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) is honored to have played a role in the production of Tyler Perry’s Netflix film “6888.” The film, which tells the heroic story of the all-Black Women’s Army Corps unit in World War II, shines a light on the dedication and courage of…