Chattanooga History

Need a little escape from a hectic August? We have just the ride – – – The Missionary Ridge Local – at just over an hour it is the perfect way to sit back and relax while riding into the history of the Chattanooga area. Crossing four bridges, passing through a pre-civil War era tunnel,…

Chattanooga Grand Junction Station invites adventurers of all ages to embark on an unforgettable educational journey steeped in history, nature, and the unmatched charm of train travel. We welcome school and camp groups to our beautiful Tennessee station, with a range of interactive experiences that guarantee a day full of learning and fun. Tailored Group…

The Origins and Evolution of the Chattanooga Choo Choo The story of the Chattanooga Choo Choo is a rich tapestry interwoven with history, music, and the transformation of a city. What began as a mere song eventually elevated Chattanooga, Tennessee, into an internationally recognized icon. Origins of the Name The Chattanooga Choo Choo initially referred…

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…

Tennessee Valley Railroad: Preserving Chattanooga’s Rail History With an enduring presence spanning over six decades at Chattanooga’s Terminal Station, from its early days with the Southern Railway to its iconic stint with the Chattanooga Choo-Choo, the Tennessee Valley Railroad’s (TVRM) legacy remains deeply intertwined with the city’s rich railroading past. As times change and the…

Union Depot: A Journey Through Time in Chattanooga’s Railway History Union Depot, once a bustling hub in the heart of downtown Chattanooga, stood as a testament to the city’s rich railway history. This monumental structure was served by two major railways: the Nashville, Chattanooga & St. Louis Railway (later part of the Louisville & Nashville)…

History coming home: At the beginning of World War II, the US Army ordered a fleet of diesel-switching locomotives from the American Locomotive Co (Alco). In September 1943, Alco delivered model S2 #7100 for service at the recently opened Volunteer Ordinance Works in Chattanooga, now home to the Volkswagen auto plant and TVRM’s Tyner Terminal…

TVRM Salutes Our Nation’s Heroes: A Veterans Weekend Tribute As Veterans Weekend approaches, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) extends its deepest gratitude to the valiant men and women who have served our country. We also recognize the unwavering support provided by their families. To express our appreciation, TVRM is proud to offer a special…