Historic Preservation

Riding the Rails of History: The Legacy of Southern Railway 4501 and GP38-2 5000 The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) offers rail enthusiasts a unique opportunity to experience the storied history of two iconic locomotives: Southern Railway 4501 and Southern GP38-2 5000. Though separated by six decades and representing different eras of railroad technology, these…

Behind the Scenes of the Baltimore and Ohio Office Car 98 Restoration The restoration of the Baltimore and Ohio Office Car 98, also known as “Eden Isle,” was far more than just a project; it was a dedicated mission to preserve a significant piece of American history. Built in 1917 by the Pullman Company as…

What is Chattanooga best known for? Chattanooga is best known for its stunning natural surroundings, historical significance, and outdoor adventure opportunities. Here are a few key highlights that make Chattanooga a standout destination: Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM)  A living museum dedicated to preserving the heritage of railroads, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum offers a…

The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is excited to introduce the “Rails, Wizards, and Spells” train adventure, a brand-new experience for 2024. Join us for a journey filled with magic and wonder as you step into a world of wizarding fun. This enchanting event includes a trip through the Enchanted Forest, a visit to Wizards Way,…

Office Car 98’s Historic Restoration Office Car 98, a symbol of railroading elegance and ingenuity, is nearing the end of its extensive restoration at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum’s Soule Shops. This historic car, now 98% restored, will soon shine in its original splendor, showcasing the meticulous efforts of dedicated craftsmen. The Historical Significance of…

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….

When History Comes Full Circle: Honoring the Legacy of William James ‘Papa Lee’ Lee At the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, we cherish moments when history comes alive in the most personal ways. Recently, we had the honor of hosting Nicholas, Liz, and Nolan—descendants of William James ‘Papa Lee’ Lee, a revered engineer of the famous…

Steam Engines 4501 and 630 Enjoyed by Norfolk Southern Guests At the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, history came to life with the presence of Steam Engines 4501 and 630, offering a double dose of steam-powered excitement. June 8, we hosted special guests from Norfolk Southern and their families, both locomotives worked hard on the Missionary…

Preserving the Legacy of 100-Year-Old Steam Engines At the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM), our mission to preserve and celebrate the rich history of railroading is exemplified by our two iconic steam engines, each over 100 years old. These engineering marvels, dating back to the early 1900s, are more than just machines; they are living…

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…