TVRM

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…

A Century on the Rails: The Enduring Journey of Dining Car 3164 Some railcars serve a decade and disappear. Others, like Southern Railway Dining Car 3164, span generations. Built in 1924 by the Pullman Company, Car 3164 embodies the craftsmanship and resilience of early 20th-century rail travel. For over a century, it has rolled through…

Dining in Elegance: The Journey of Southern Railway’s ‘Travelers Fare’ Dining Car Step aboard the past and experience a masterpiece of moving history—Southern Railway Dining Car No. 3158, affectionately named “Travelers Fare.” Built by the Pullman Company in 1924, this heavyweight dining car once graced the rails of premier Southern Railway passenger trains, and now…

Steam in Motion: Southern Railway 630 Lives On Few experiences stir the soul quite like the thunderous exhale of a steam locomotive coming to life. At the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM), Southern Railway steam engine No. 630 isn’t just a display—it’s a roaring, rolling monument to the age of steam. On any given weekend,…

Remembering Rick Burchett: A True Champion of Railroad Preservation The railroad community has lost a remarkable figure. We are saddened to share the passing of Rick Burchett—an extraordinary advocate for preserving our railroading legacy. Rick’s passion, deep knowledge, and warm humor touched the lives of all who had the honor of working with him. More…

All Aboard for a Weekend of Adventure at TVRM Looking for a memorable weekend experience? The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) offers something for everyone—from quick, engaging excursions to immersive day-long adventures through breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a family-friendly outing, TVRM’s variety of train rides…

Dining Car 3164: From Luxury to Legacy The Birth of Dining Car 3164 Dining Car 3164 rolled off the assembly line on April 24, 1925, built by the Pullman Car & Manufacturing Corporation for Southern Railway. It was a marvel of modern engineering and opulence—designed during a golden age when rail travel reigned supreme in…

Tonight, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum joins with institutions across the nation in honoring the birth of a revolution that shaped the world. As part of the “Two Lights for Tomorrow” initiative—an early commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary—TVRM is proud to display two lights in the upstairs window of the Grand Junction Depot, echoing the…

Each whistle of a train at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) echoes more than just the sound of motion—it carries tradition, joy, and community. As Best of the Best nominations open once again, we invite you to help keep this Chattanooga treasure on track by nominating TVRM. Your support means the world to our…

Hop Aboard for Spring Smiles with Conductor Cottontail at TVRM! Springtime is in full swing, and there’s no better way to celebrate than with a visit to the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM)—especially when a very special guest is on duty! On April 18 & 19, before you hop on board your train ride, don’t…