Railroad Preservation

The mercury’s set to soar this weekend, but don’t let that deter you from planning an exciting day out! We’ve got just the right antidote to the heat – a deliciously cool treat paired with an unforgettable train journey. Specialty Ice Cream Flavors aboard the Missionary Ridge Local Taking a cue from the old-world charm…

The silver screen has a knack for bringing history to life. In 1998, the story of Southern Railway’s 4501 was painted in vibrant colors and emotional drama with the release of “October Sky”, starring Jake Gyllenhaal, Chris Cooper, Chris Owen, and Laura Dern. The film, a poignant reflection of the 1950s era, blended the magic…

Today for “Throwback Thursday,” Southern Railway 630 leads a TVRM Missionary Ridge Local trip out of East Chattanooga in the mid-1980s.  Though clothing styles have changed since the 80s, you can still experience the same nostalgia of historic steam and passenger equipment with the Southern 630 from 1904 leading our Missionary Ridge Local excursions this…

Come out and join us as we celebrate 62+ years of railroad preservation! Special Events throughout the day: Special Photo Exhibit in the lobby of Grand Junction Depot: “Steam in the Valley, TVRM’s Early Years” by John Coniglio On the grounds “history interpretation” will represent Military encampment and demonstrations. Also on display – a few…

August 19 and 20 will be a special weekend at TVRM: Vintage Diesel weekend on the Missionary Ridge Local! Saturday will feature Tennessee, Alabama & Georgia Railway No. 80 and Sunday will feature Southern Railway No. 5000. It’s a great time to ride a train. Be sure to ask at the station about upgrading to…

Few can boast the timeless allure and charm of a steam locomotive. But when that very locomotive shares screen space with Hollywood luminaries, the tale turns legendary. From Tracks to Reels The year was 1971. Southern Railway No. 4501, a locomotive steeped in history, transcended its traditional track boundaries. It was cast alongside James Maitland…

Many visitors are familiar with the museum’s flagship locomotive 4501, and although it continues in operation at TVRM much as it did in the 1930s, the tender behind it was not always behind 4501. This ‘new’ tender was sourced to carry additional coal and water, in the Southern excursion era, after it was discovered on…

Last week, new batteries were installed in F7A locomotive 576, and the engine had all accessible light bulbs replaced. As a result, another major step in the locomotive’s return to service was accomplished. Once returned to service, the 576 will dethrone the 710 as the oldest operating diesel locomotive in our collection, as it was…

Big news from the crew at Soule Shops- steam star #630 will roll into service tonight on the Evening Ridge Runner! We are so excited to have this beautiful 119 year old steam engine running and she will be leading the way on the Missionary Ridge Local all weekend. Be sure to ask the station…

This year, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) was honored to host 53 enthusiastic campers during our annual Rail Camp summer program. Spanning five incredible weeks, these young rail enthusiasts had the opportunity to dive deep into the captivating world of railroad operations. Our Rail Camp provided an immersive experience for the campers, enabling them…