Railroad History

Discover the Thrills of the Hiwassee River Scenic Railroad As the spring air turns warmer, the Hiwassee River Scenic Railroad is gearing up to open its tracks on May 3, 2024, offering adventurers and train enthusiasts the chance to explore East Tennessee’s breathtaking landscapes. This season, two unique train journeys—the Hiwassee Loop and the Copperhill…

A Journey Through Time: Steam Engine 630’s Historic Ride on the Missionary Ridge Local If you’re a fan of railroads or history, or simply looking for an unforgettable family outing, the Missionary Ridge Local offers a remarkable experience. Today, the venerable steam engine 630, a remarkable artifact that has been chugging along for 120 years,…

Celebrating Jim Lusk’s Legacy at Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) community specifically, mourns the loss of James Buckner Lusk, a cherished local figure and a long-time friend of TVRM. Known for his dedicated service and role as a beloved Santa, James also contributed to TVRM with his unique “Turntable Talks.”…

Explore the Hiwassee River Railroad As the season shifts into the warmth of late spring and early summer, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum proudly announces the return of its beloved train rides: the Copperhill Special and the Hiwassee Loop. These excursions not only provide a journey through stunning landscapes but also a ride through the…

Embark on a Timeless Train Journey This Weekend at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum This weekend, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum offers more than just a train ride—it provides a gateway into the rich tapestry of railroading history. As we gear up for a picturesque weekend, the iconic 120-year-old steam locomotive #630 will take center…

Celebrating Passion and Dedication: Lisa Goodman and the TVRM Gift Shop At the heart of the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) lies not just a commitment to preserving railway history but also a dedication to enhancing visitor experiences. One shining example of this commitment is Lisa Goodman, who was recently featured in Chatter magazine for…

Step aboard the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) and be whisked away into an era of steam engines and railway romance. This weekend, TVRM invites you to experience the charm of a bygone age with rides on the Missionary Ridge Local, powered by the historic engine, Steam Star #630—a testament to our nation’s rich railway…

Spike was spotted checking out all the fun things happening at TVRM! Spring must really be on the way.   photo by Randy Neal

Reviving Rail History: Unique Finds for Railroad Restoration In the realm of railroad restoration, the old adage, “One person’s junk could be another’s treasure,” takes on a profound significance. The quest for preservation often leads us to unexpected places, uncovering hidden gems that are crucial for keeping the rich tapestry of railroad history alive. Over…

The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) has welcomed an exciting new addition to its collection—a Louisville & Nashville (L&N) flatcar donated by Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) from the Sequoyah Nuclear Plant. Flatcars have played an essential role in railroad operations for over a century, and this recent donation presents an exciting opportunity for TVRM. Whether…