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Tennessee Valley Railroad News

Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum

Explore articles, features, and stories that delve into the rich history and ongoing work of the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, a key institution preserving and showcasing the golden age of railroading.

Ride, Relax, Revel: The Hiwassee River Train Experience

Discover the Majestic Hiwassee River Gorge Aboard TVRM’s Scenic Railroad Are you craving a scenic escape, an adventure that sweeps you away from the humdrum of everyday life? The Hiwassee River Scenic Railroad offers an unparalleled journey through the breathtaking Hiwassee River Gorge, ensuring every moment is captured in picturesque beauty. Choose from two fantastic…

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…

Grant-Funded HVAC Upgrades at Grand Junction Depot

How a Grant is Helping Preserve History at Grand Junction Depot At the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, preserving history is more than just a mission—it’s a passion. Thanks to a generous grant from The Tennessee State Museum Capital Improvement Program, we have embarked on an important project to upgrade the HVAC systems at Grand Junction…

Celebrating 62 Years of Preserving Railroad History: A Journey of Resilience and Dedication at Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum

Today, August 11, marks 62 years since we were chartered in 1961 to preserve the golden age of the American Railroad! Over the years we’ve seen changes in the “outside world” that make us seem even more dated than we were in 1961, we’ve endured many trying times that threatened to end our existence, we’ve…

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…

Experience End-of-Summer Magic at Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum!

As the sun sets on the final days of summer, immerse yourself in the enchanting world of trains at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) in Chattanooga, TN. With a rich railway heritage dating back to the 1850s, TVRM offers a unique blend of history, adventure, and scenic beauty, making it the perfect destination to…

Embark on a Vintage Adventure: July’s Classic Train Ride with the Historic 4501 Steam Engine at Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum

No better way to round out July than with a classic Chattanooga train ride! The Missionary Ridge Local will feature 112-year old steam star number 4501. This engine has lived a storied life and is living the best life here at TVRM – bringing an authentic train ride to life for each and every visitor….