Historic Preservation

The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum continues its mission of preserving rail history with the exciting addition of SD9 locomotive #205. This powerful machine, built in 1955 by EMD, carries decades of history, having served various railroads before finding its forever home at TVRM. Let’s dive into the fascinating legacy of this diesel workhorse and what’s…

When communities come together to support local initiatives, remarkable transformations happen. Recently, one of our cherished structures received a fresh coat of paint, thanks to the leadership and vision of Eagle Scout candidate Caden Gildernew from Boy Scouts of America Troop 2. This project exemplifies how dedication and teamwork can create a lasting impact. The…

Rediscovering the Splendor of B&O Office Car 98: A Journey Back in Time Step aboard the resplendent Baltimore & Ohio (B&O) Railroad Office Car No. 98 at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM), and you’ll feel as if you’ve been whisked away to a lavish era of executive rail travel. Built by Pullman in 1917…

The TAG Heritage Unit, NS 4851, is a shining example of the incredible craftsmanship at the Juniata Locomotive Shop. From its origins as NS 9583, a 2000-built unit, to its stunning transformation into a legacy locomotive, this project showcases innovation, dedication, and artistry. It took 10 carmen painters, 450 hours, and 77 gallons of paint…

Merry Christmas and Reflecting on the Season’s Joy Merry Christmas everyone! We hope your holidays have been filled with joy, peace and great memories.

Heritage Meets History at TVRM: Celebrating TAG Heritage Unit #4851 The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) is proud to host the TAG Heritage Unit #4851 for a private holiday event featuring Norfolk Southern employees. This striking locomotive, originally built in 2000, showcases the legacy of the Tennessee, Alabama & Georgia (TAG) Railway with its heritage-inspired…

When Iron Rails Kissed the River: The Day Chattanooga Changed Forever On December 1, 1849, a defining moment unfolded along the banks of the Tennessee River: a modest steam locomotive named the ALABAMA rolled into Chattanooga, carrying dignitaries and more than 200 invited guests. For many years, this community had thrived as a river outpost—its…

As the holiday season approaches, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) invites you to partake in a unique celebration that marries the elegance of a traditional tea service with the nostalgia of historic train travel. The Christmas Tea event, held in the storied Grand Junction Depot, offers an immersive experience that transports guests to a…

As the whistle echoes and steam fills the air, the 2024 Summerville Steam Special season comes to a close. It’s been an unforgettable journey marked by thrilling sights and cherished memories, culminating in a spectacular double-header event featuring two legendary engines—Steam Engines 630 and 4501. Enthusiasts, families, and history buffs gathered to witness this grand…

Trailblazer Ida Hicks: Pioneering Women in Railroading’s Legacy Did you know that women have long been integral to the success of railroading? From operations to logistics, women have contributed to this essential industry, often in ways that have gone unrecognized. For today’s Throwback Thursday, we shine a spotlight on Ms. Ida Hicks, a pioneering worker…