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Tennessee Valley Railroad News

TVRM

The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) section of our blog offers readers an exclusive glimpse into the world of railroad heritage preservation. Our posts focus on the latest developments and events at the museum, showcasing its significant role in keeping the history of rail transport alive. As a hub for railroad history enthusiasts and the general public alike, TVRM is not just a museum; it’s an active preservation site where the past is continually brought to life through meticulously restored locomotives, historic railcars, and interactive exhibits. Each blog entry delves deep into the fascinating stories behind our collections, offering insights into the technological advancements and cultural impacts of railroading. Our aim is to educate and engage our audience with accurate and enthralling historical details, bringing the golden age of rail travel into the present day and demonstrating its lasting relevance in our lives. Whether you’re a lifelong train aficionado or a newcomer to the world of railroads, our blog serves as a reliable and enriching source of knowledge, celebrating the enduring legacy of the rails.

Steam, Sunsets & Model Trains: Your Weekend Guide to TVRM’s Founder’s Day

TVRM Founder’s Day Weekend Guide 2025 The first full weekend of September is here, and TVRM’s Founder’s Day Celebration is ready to roll! Whether you’re a longtime railfan or a family looking for a fun weekend, there’s something unforgettable waiting for you at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum. Let’s break down everything happening Saturday, September…

Final Evening Ridge Runner of the Season — Ride Behind Steam Star 630

Final Evening Steam Ride at TVRM As the golden sun dips behind the ridges of Chattanooga, a final whistle will echo through the valley — the last Evening Ridge Runner of the season is ready to depart. And it’s going out in unforgettable style: with Southern Railway 2-8-0 No. 630 in the lead. This Saturday…

Miniature Marvels in Motion: Explore TVRM’s Model Railroaders Exhibit This Founder’s Day

🚂 A Weekend of Miniature Wonders Begins at TVRM This Founder’s Day weekend, Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum invites families, rail fans, and curious minds of all ages to step into a world of miniature locomotives and maximum creativity. Tucked inside TVRM’s exhibit building is the Tennessee Valley Model Railroaders’ intricate and multi-line layout, a must-see…

Steam, Community & Celebration: Founder’s Day Weekend Returns!

Steam, Community & Celebration: Founder’s Day Weekend Returns! The heartbeat of Southeastern railroading is ready to roar again as Founder’s Day Weekend returns to the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM)! From Friday through Sunday, families, photographers, and history buffs alike can step aboard a living piece of American heritage. At the center of it all?…

A Toast to the Past: Dining Car 3158 Returns to TVRM Rails

A Toast to the Past: Dining Car 3158 Returns to TVRM Rails Friday night’s dinner train saw the second night of service for former Southern Railway Dining car 3158 after its extensive, five month, body and kitchen rehabilitation. The train was also the shake down cruise for Southern Railway Office Car 21 after a multi-year…

Step Into Railroading’s Past This Labor Day Weekend

Step Into Railroading’s Past This Labor Day Weekend Labor Day weekend is almost here, and Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) is rolling out a slate of classic rail excursions that blend nostalgia, scenic beauty, and unforgettable experiences for all ages. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing daytime adventure, a family outing, or a charming date night,…

Final Inspection — The Work Behind the Steam

Behind the Scenes with Fireman Kyle Shannon Before a single whistle echoes across the hills or a wheel turns down the track, a dedicated team ensures every bolt, bearing, and brake on 114-year-old Steam Engine No. 4501 is in working order. On this day, Fireman Kyle Shannon — a seasoned member of TVRM’s mechanical team…

Step Into Railroading’s Story — This Weekend at TVRM

Bright skies, a warm breeze, and the sound of steel wheels on rails — it’s the perfect weekend to ride with the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum. From Saturday’s full schedule to Sunday’s relaxed departures, every trip connects you to more than a destination. It connects you to the living story of America’s railroads. Saturday Trips…

Step into Magic — A Wizarding Ride Awaits at TVRM

🧙‍♂️ All Aboard for Magic! This fall, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum opens the gates once more to Rails, Wizards & Spells — an imaginative, family-friendly experience where fantasy meets railroading tradition. From the moment you pass through the Enchanted Forest entrance to the final spell aboard your train car, every detail is curated to…

A Day on the Chickamauga Turn – Powered by Diesel No. 5000

Feel the Power of the Past: Ride the Chickamauga Turn with Diesel No. 5000 🚉 Why This Ride Matters There’s something grounding about riding steel rails through green pastures and into a town where history whispers from every brick and depot. When Diesel Engine No. 5000 leads the Chickamauga Turn, passengers aren’t just getting from…