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Tennessee Valley Railroad News

Steam Locomotive Restoration

Explore the fascinating world of steam locomotive restoration at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum. Dive into the intricate processes, dedicated professionals, and the history behind each locomotive brought back to life.

All Aboard for Labor Day Weekend in Chattanooga!

Celebrate the long weekend in style! In Chattanooga, the Missionary Ridge Local is prepped and ready to roll, showcasing the magnificent 119-year-old steam engine, #630. Join us for the Evening Ridge Runner available on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, departing precisely at 7:00 pm. Allow the rhythmic chugging of the train and the scenic beauty to…

All Aboard for an Autumn Adventure: The Summerville Steam and Chickamauga Turn!

Autumn is a season of transformation. The leaves begin their magical metamorphosis, the air turns crisp, and the landscapes present a medley of vibrant colors. And what better way to witness this seasonal spectacle than aboard a classic steam train journeying through Georgia’s picturesque terrains? We’re thrilled to announce that tickets for the iconic Summerville…

Chickamauga Turn and Summerville Steam: The Beloved Georgia Excursions are Back!

Chickamauga Turn and Summerville Steam returns! TVRM is pleased to announce we will begin operating our Georgia Excursions beginning September 16. Tickets will be on sale soon – check back here for that announcement. Summerville Steam Dates: September 16 Double Header featuring 4501 and 630 4501 will be featured on: Sept. 30, Oct. 7, 14,…

Cool Off This Weekend with a Unique Steam Train Experience and Custom Ice Cream Flavors!

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…

4501’s Role in “October Sky”: A Journey Remembered

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…

Throwback Thursday: Reliving the ’80s with Southern Railway 630 on the Missionary Ridge Local

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…

“In The Movies”: The Riveting Tale of Southern Railway No. 4501

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…

Throwback Thursday: Iconic Locomotive 4501 to Ride Again with Historically Sourced Tender: Discover the Story Behind the Engine

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…

Embark on a Historical Journey with the Missionary Ridge Local: A Relaxing Escape Through Chattanooga’s Past Aboard the 119-Year-Old Steam Star Number 630

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,…

Steam Star #630 Joins the Evening Ridge Runner: An Exciting Update from Soule Shops

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…