Historic Preservation

The Grand Junction Depot, a crucial component of the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum in Chattanooga, is set to receive much needed renovations thanks to a $67,500 Capital Maintenance and Improvements grant from the Tennessee State Museum. The grant, which is part of a broader initiative to support non-profit museums, will fund several key projects, including…

Discover Chattanooga’s Rich Rail History Aboard the Missionary Ridge Local Step back in time this weekend with a ride aboard the Missionary Ridge Local—one of Chattanooga’s most exciting and educational train experiences! Whether you’re a railroad enthusiast or just looking for a fun activity, this one-hour journey is a fantastic way to connect with the…

October Train Rides: Missionary Ridge Local & Fall Fun October is here, and with it comes crisp air, colorful leaves, and the perfect opportunity to experience the beauty of the season by train! Whether you’re a history enthusiast or just looking for a fun family outing, this weekend offers a variety of exciting train adventures…

Southern Railway 4501 Transformed: WWII & Clover Colony Ride The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) recently hosted a spectacular weekend event celebrating the return of steam and the transformation of Southern Railway 4501 into GM&O Mikado 4382. Guests were treated to an authentic WWII re-enactment, which brought history to life, and the chance to ride…

Experience Comfort and History Aboard the CLOVER COLONY On September 8th, you can enjoy a one-day exclusive ride on the CLOVER COLONY, powered by the historic Steam Locomotive 4382. This event commemorates two milestones: 75 years since the GM&O Dieselized and 30 years since the CLOVER COLONY was restored. Built in 1920, this Pullman Heavyweight…

Gulf Mobile & Ohio Steam Returns for One Weekend This September 7-8, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum will be hosting a one-time event celebrating the return of the Gulf Mobile & Ohio steam engine. For the first time, the Southern Railway 4501 will transform into the GM&O Mikado 4382, honoring the GM&O’s impact on rail…

Experience Labor Day Weekend with the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum As you make your plans for the upcoming Labor Day Weekend, there truly is no better way to embark on a fascinating journey through time than by visiting the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum. All of our trains come equipped with air-conditioned coaches, ensuring a comfortable,…

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…