Steam Locomotives

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…

All Aboard! New Dates Added for the Summerville Steam Special in 2024 We’re thrilled to announce that the Summerville Steam Special has added two new dates to its 2024 schedule! Join us on July 27th and August 24th for an unforgettable journey through the picturesque foothills of North Georgia from Chattanooga, TN to Summerville, GA….

The Legacy of Steam Engine 4501 at TVRM This June 6, 2024, marks a significant anniversary in the world of railroading. It’s been 60 years since Steam Engine 4501 was transferred to the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) from the Kentucky & Tennessee Railway. This event was the beginning of a new chapter for the…

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,…

Welcome aboard the Summerville Steam Special, where the tracks lead not just to destinations but through the pages of history. This 2024 journey promises an unparalleled experience, combining the charm of rail travel with the storied past of the Southern 4501 steam locomotive. As we gear up for this unique trip, let’s explore some key…

Getting Fired Up for a Trip to Summerville, Georgia! There’s something magical about combining history, nature, and the spirit of adventure. This year, as autumn paints Tennessee with its golden hues, I’m gearing up for a thrilling journey to Summerville, Georgia. And what’s the occasion? The 4501 is celebrating 112 illustrious years this October. This…

The Historic Summerville Railroad Turntable: A Testament to the Golden Age of Railroads In the heart of Summerville lies a relic from a bygone era, a testament to the days when railroads were the lifeblood of commerce and travel. The Summerville Railroad Turntable, a massive 90-ton steel structure, stands as a symbol of the golden…

All aboard the nostalgia train! 🚂 Today marks another enchanting day at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, as the majestic 4501 enters the Grand Junction yard for its second Missionary Ridge Local of the day. This is no ordinary day, as railway aficionados and families alike are in for a treat. The beautiful steam engines,…

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…

Doug Karhan: A Steward of Steam’s Legacy The world of steam locomotion and railway heritage has recently bid farewell to one of its unsung heroes. Doug Karhan, a venerated master mechanic of steam for Norfolk Southern from 1982 until the end of excursions in 1994, passed away on November 11, 2021. His legacy is a…