Tennessee Valley Railroad News

A Cherished Moment: A Tribute to Bob Soule and the TVRM Legacy I vividly recall that day in the spring of 2011 when the steam locomotive 630 made its first test run after a comprehensive restoration. Our Shop Foreman, George Walker, had coupled the vintage Nashville, Chattanooga, and St. Louis wooden caboose behind the newly…

Mark your calendars and set your alarms, railroad enthusiasts and history lovers! The magnificent Steam Engine #4501 is making its triumphant return to the tracks on March 4, 2017. This iconic piece of American railroading history will once again lead the way on the Summerville Steam Special, providing a nostalgic journey from Chattanooga to Summerville…

Showcasing a Slice of Railroad History at Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) has always championed the vision of being more than a static showcase of railroad history – we aim to be a ‘Museum that Moves’. With a diverse range of historic pieces in our collection, we offer an immersive…

A Ride Down Memory Lane: Steam Locomotive 630 and The Legacy of TVRM It seems like yesterday that we watched steam locomotive 630 roll out for test runs in the spring of 2011. I still remember the excitement in the air, the buzz of anticipation and the pride that every TVRM employee felt on that…

Embark on a Journey Through Time: The Missionary Ridge Local Experience Step back in time and experience a piece of living history with the Missionary Ridge Local, operating on Saturday, January 14. This isn’t just a train ride; it’s a 55-minute adventure through the heart of Chattanooga’s storied past. Departing from Grand Junction Station at…

Honoring Jim McClellan: The Architect of Modern Railroading The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) joins the railroading community in mourning the loss of a distinguished figure, Jim McClellan, renowned for his profound impact on North America’s railroad industry. In tribute, Steam Locomotive 4501 proudly displays black flags on its smokebox, symbolizing our respect and remembrance….

The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) recently had the honor of hosting a remarkable guest, Melvin Turner, a World War II veteran who celebrated his 100th birthday this March. Mr. Turner’s visit was not just a ride on the Missionary Ridge Local but a journey through history, commemorating both his centennial milestone and his invaluable…

Discover Tennessee’s Natural Wonders: Hiwassee Loop & Copperhill Special Train Rides Autumn in Tennessee is nothing short of magical. As the leaves change, the picturesque landscapes come to life, offering sights that remain etched in memory for a lifetime. This fall, we invite you to journey through these landscapes aboard two of our most popular…

It’s TVRM Night at the Lookouts – Come Out to the Ball Game! Baseball, one of America’s most cherished pastimes, intertwines with the rich tapestry of local history at TVRM Night with the Chattanooga Lookouts. This event is not just a game; it’s a celebration of community, history, and the love of sports. Here’s why…

A Journey of Joy: Remembering Gabriel “Tater” Singleton at TVRM A few weeks ago, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) had the profound honor of hosting a very special guest, Gabriel “Tater” Singleton. Gabriel’s dream, facilitated by Make A Wish, was to ride a train and spend a day at TVRM. This dream turned into…

Support TVRM at the Lookouts Tonight: A Historic Pitch to Remember Tonight’s game at the Lookouts is set to be a memorable one, with the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) making a special appearance. It’s not just any night; it’s a historic gathering where Sir Topham Hatt, alongside Steve and Matthew Freer, will grace the…

The Art of Preservation: Restoring TAG #80 to Original Glory At the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, history isn’t just stored — it’s revived. One of our latest endeavors, the restoration of TAG 80, is a testament to that mission. This isn’t just any locomotive; it’s the first production GP38 ever made by EMD. Understanding the…