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Tennessee Valley Railroad News

Southern Railway 4501

Explore the journey of the Southern Railway 4501, TVRM’s crown jewel, through our dedicated tag featuring all updates and stories related to this magnificent steam locomotive. From in-depth restoration diaries to exhilarating event announcements where 4501 steams to life, this tag is a treasure trove for enthusiasts and historians alike, providing a chronicle of the engine’s storied past, present endeavors, and future under the care of the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum.

Southern Railway No. 4501 to Return in Classic Passenger Livery for 2026

A Limited Celebratory Return for a Steam Icon TVRM Announces Celebratory Paint Projects At the Annual Banquet for the Railroad Passenger Car Alliance conference in Chattanooga, TN, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum announced that it’s iconic steam locomotive No. 4501 will return from her annual inspection wearing the classic Southern Railway passenger livery she entered…

Ride the Legend—Steam Engine 4501 Returns to Summerville

Ride the Legend—Steam Engine 4501 Returns to Summerville Step aboard a living piece of railroading excellence as Steam Engine 4501 powers up for its journey from Chattanooga to Summerville, Georgia, on Saturday, June 28. Built in 1911, this 114-year-old locomotive embodies the golden era of American steam travel. With powerful chuffs and vintage charm, 4501…

Steam Queen Rolls Again: Ride Behind 4501 on the Summerville Steam Special

Steam Queen Rolls Again: Ride Behind 4501 on the Summerville Steam Special The unmistakable whistle of Southern Railway 4501 echoes through Chattanooga once more as this living legend takes the lead on the Summerville Steam Special. At 114 years old, this steam icon continues to captivate rail fans and casual travelers alike—offering not just a…

Steam Season 2025 Begins at TVRM!

All Aboard for an Exciting Start to Steam Season! March marks the return of steam railroading at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM), and the excitement is already building! This year, the season kicks off with a few important updates: 4501 Remains in the Shop: Our beloved Southern Railway 4501 will take a little extra…

Experience the Thrill of Steam Railroading at TVRM

Experience the Thrill of Steam Railroading at TVRM TVRM is kicking off its steam season in style with a special two-day event featuring two of the most iconic steam locomotives in the country. Whether you’re a longtime railfan or new to the world of steam trains, this event offers an unforgettable glimpse into the power…

Southern Railway 4501 Transformed: WWII & Clover Colony Ride

Southern Railway 4501 Transformed: WWII & Clover Colony Ride The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) recently hosted a spectacular weekend event celebrating the return of steam and the transformation of Southern Railway 4501 into GM&O Mikado 4382. Guests were treated to an authentic WWII re-enactment, which brought history to life, and the chance to ride…

Ride into History This Founder’s Day Weekend: Celebrating the Final Days of Steam on the GM&O

Ride into History This Founder’s Day Weekend: Celebrating the Final Days of Steam on the GM&O This Founder’s Day weekend, immerse yourself in the golden age of railroading at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM)!  We are excited to present Southern Railway 4501, dressed as Gulf Mobile & Ohio 4382, in a tribute to the…

Experience Comfort and History Aboard the Clover Colony

Experience Comfort and History Aboard the CLOVER COLONY On September 8th, you can enjoy a one-day exclusive ride on the CLOVER COLONY, powered by the historic Steam Locomotive 4382. This event commemorates two milestones: 75 years since the GM&O Dieselized and 30 years since the CLOVER COLONY was restored. Built in 1920, this Pullman Heavyweight…

A Historic Weekend: Gulf Mobile & Ohio Steam Returns to the Tennessee Valley

Gulf Mobile & Ohio Steam Returns for One Weekend This September 7-8, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum will be hosting a one-time event celebrating the return of the Gulf Mobile & Ohio steam engine. For the first time, the Southern Railway 4501 will transform into the GM&O Mikado 4382, honoring the GM&O’s impact on rail…

Southern Railway 4501 & GP38-2 5000: A Legacy Preserved

Riding the Rails of History: The Legacy of Southern Railway 4501 and GP38-2 5000 The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) offers rail enthusiasts a unique opportunity to experience the storied history of two iconic locomotives: Southern Railway 4501 and Southern GP38-2 5000. Though separated by six decades and representing different eras of railroad technology, these…

Hiwassee Loop Train Ride Through Tennessee’s Hiwassee River Gorge
  • Delano Trip
From $62 per person

Embark on a 4.5-hour journey through the lower Hiwassee River gorge, featuring the remarkable Hiwassee Loop. This 50-mile round trip starts at 1:30 p.m. and ends at 6 p.m., showcasing the natural beauty and railway marvels of Tennessee.