Railroad History and Heritage

Southern Railway 832: A Vintage Coach’s Revival in 2023 The world of trains and railways is abuzz with innovations and restorations. While the spotlight often shines on the powerful locomotives, it’s essential to remember the heart and soul of the railway experience: the coaches. One such coach, the Southern Railway 832, is undergoing a significant…

The Legacy of the Chattanooga Choo Choo The Chattanooga Choo Choo is not just a song, but a symbol of transformation, history, and cultural significance for Chattanooga, Tennessee. Originally a wood-burning steam locomotive that began its journey in March 1880, the Chattanooga Choo Choo connected Cincinnati and Chattanooga, marking a pivotal moment in post-Civil War…

Chattanooga Choo Choo: A Cultural Phenomenon Glenn Miller, Chattanooga Choo Choo, cultural impact, swing era, big band music, WWII music, American music culture “Chattanooga Choo Choo,” performed by Glenn Miller and His Orchestra, transcends its status as a popular swing song to become a cultural touchstone. Its journey from the recording studio to its lasting…

The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) is known for its impressive collection of historic locomotives and passenger cars, but the richness of our collection extends beyond these classic examples of rail transport. Among our diverse assortment of railroad artifacts, the 1941 Railway Express Agency Studebaker delivery truck holds a unique place. Fresh out of the…

Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum transfers ownership of Steam Locomotive 5288 to Colebrookdale Railroad Preservation Trust Chattanooga, TN and Boyertown, PA.: The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (“TVRM”) and the Colebrookdale Railroad Preservation Trust are pleased to announce a partnership that will return to Pennsylvania a historic steam passenger locomotive. Locomotive 5288, a 4-6-2 Pacific-type locomotive built…

Are you ready for a weekend filled with spectacular views and historical landmarks? Pack your bags and embark on a thrilling adventure with Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM). This weekend, you get to choose between two signature train trips: the #CopperhillSpecial on Saturday and the #HiwasseeLoop on Sunday. Each journey is unique and offers a…

Honoring the Past: TVRM Receives Grant for Maitland Restoration The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) is proud to announce it has received a generous $20,000 grant from the John Emery Rail Heritage Trust. This funding will significantly contribute to the restoration of the Pullman sleeping car Maitland, a 12-1 configuration sleeper car that once epitomized…

This Saturday, embark on a journey that promises to leave you spellbound by the breathtaking vistas and rustic charm of East Tennessee’s landscape. The Copperhill Special, an 85-mile round trip, will carry you through some of the most magnificent scenery that this region has to offer. Discover the Wonders of Hiwassee River Gorge The journey…

TVRM Gratefully Acknowledges John Emery Rail Heritage Trust Grant We are deeply appreciative to have been awarded a grant of $20,000 from the John Emery Rail Heritage Trust. Notably, half of this grant, amounting to $10,000, was received in mid-2022. This generous funding is instrumental in facilitating numerous enhancements to the dining car #899, known…

The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) was honored to participate in Dalewood Middle School’s recent career fair, showcasing the importance and intricacies of railroad museum work. Connecting the past with the present and projecting the future of railroads is vital, and we were thrilled to provide students with a glimpse into the fascinating world of…