Historic Preservation

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…

Rolling Straight into Summer! As summer begins, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) is gearing up for one of its most anticipated events of the year: the Summerville Steam Special. On June 1st, this unique doubleheader event will see two of TVRM’s most beloved steam locomotives, Steam Star #630 and the Queen of Steam #4501,…

Celebrating National Preservation Month with Style As May marks National Preservation Month, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) proudly celebrates the art of preservation. This year, Brittany and Billy visited the Homefront Tea Room, showcasing their “thrifted finds.” Their stylish outfits, sourced from thrift stores, are a tribute to preserving fashion history. The couple joined…

Steam Star #630: Chosen as a Cover Model We are thrilled to announce that Steam Star #630, a 120-year-old locomotive, has been selected as a cover model once again. This honor is a tribute to its enduring appeal and importance as a shining example of this regions rich railroad history. We extend our gratitude to…

TVRM Welcomes Former L&N SD40 Number 1230 in Chattanooga Newly arrived in Chattanooga – former L&N SD40 Number 1230 – Last owned by First Energy at their now closed Stratton, OH plant. This engine will be used by our Tyner Terminal Railway to switch the VW plant. Plans are to eventually restore this engine to…

Journey Through History and Nature on the Hiwassee River Scenic Railroad Spring and Summer in East Tennessee is a time of renewal, with the landscape bursting into bloom and the Hiwassee River Scenic Railroad offering the perfect way to experience it. With two distinct rides, the Hiwassee Loop and the Copperhill Special, you have the…

Experience Historical Train Journeys: The Hiwassee Loop & Copperhill Special This Memorial Day This Memorial Day, step back in time with a journey through the scenic lower Hiwassee River Gorge aboard our exclusive train rides. The Hiwassee Loop and Copperhill Special provide a unique opportunity to explore the region’s rich industrial heritage. With options for…