Locomotive Restoration Updates

In the midst of World War II, the role of the railroad was pivotal in ways that may surprise you. Beyond transporting civilians and goods, railroads like the Southern Railway stepped onto the front lines. They sponsored Railway Operating Battalions, an initiative that was critical for the Allied forces’ success. The Southern Railway’s 727th Railway…

In Memoriam: Mike Smith – The Heartbeat of TVRM Grounds The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) stands hand-in-hand with the Smith family in mourning the loss of an invaluable team member, Mike Smith. As the steward of our grounds, Mike’s dedication made our premises a welcoming haven for visitors from all walks of life. It…

Historic Fairbanks-Morse H16-66 Locomotive Adds Sparkle to Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum’s Collection Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) has proudly announced the addition of an iconic Fairbanks-Morse model H16-66 #F3060 locomotive to their collection, a gracious donation from the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA). Manufactured in 1958 and affectionately termed the “Baby” Trainmaster, this 1600 horsepower locomotive…

Revitalizing History: Former Army SW8 #2000’s New Paint Job There’s a fresh coat of history on the tracks! The former Army SW8 #2000 locomotive has undergone a remarkable transformation, receiving a stunning new paint job as it prepares to serve at the facility of our latest customer. This locomotive, seasoned by years of diligent service…

In this bustling quarter, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum’ blog has kept its readers on their toes. Here’s a concise recap of what we delved into: TVA Donation: We kicked off with an in-depth look at the generous donation by TVA, shedding light on its historical and contemporary significance for rail enthusiasts and Tennessee’s rail…

L&N Historical Society Moves to Chattanooga: Enhancing Southern Railroad Research & Preservation The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) and the Southern Railway Historical Association (SRHA) have entered into an agreement with the L&N Historical Society (LNHS) to relocate the LNHS headquarters, archives, and company store from Bowling Green, KY to Chattanooga, TN. LNHS will occupy…

Nostalgia on Rails: A Glimpse into TVRM’s Festive Past A special thanks to John for sharing a piece of the past that binds us all together, even as we move ahead at diverging speeds. As 2020 draws to a close, it’s a moment to look back, reminisce, and appreciate the history that brought us here….

Progress During a Pandemic: Preserving Railroad History The allure of train travel from days gone by isn’t just about the locomotives and their crews. It’s also about the little details, the props that paint a vivid picture of a bygone era. From milk cans on station platforms to vintage vehicles, every piece tells a story….

In Memory of Grady Ragan: A TVRM Legend It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Grady Ragan, a stalwart of the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM), on June 26, 2020. In tribute, the iconic 4501 proudly dons black flags in his honor today. Grady wasn’t just an employee; he was part…

Rainy Day Rail Adventures: A Dive into TVRM’s Autumn Rides Rainy days have a certain charm – the rhythm of droplets against the window, the overcast skies, and the cool breeze. But what could make such days even more enchanting? The answer is simple: a nostalgic train ride through the picturesque landscapes of North Georgia….