Locomotive Restoration Updates

History coming home: At the beginning of World War II, the US Army ordered a fleet of diesel-switching locomotives from the American Locomotive Co (Alco). In September 1943, Alco delivered model S2 #7100 for service at the recently opened Volunteer Ordinance Works in Chattanooga, now home to the Volkswagen auto plant and TVRM’s Tyner Terminal…

Behind the Scenes at Soule Shops: Where History Gets a Revival At the heart of the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) lies the Soule Shops, a bustling hub where the magic of restoration happens. It’s here that we breathe life back into historic rail equipment, ensuring that the stories of the past continue to chug…

Spring 2019: A Season of Acquisitions and Preservation at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) made several notable additions to its rolling stock collection in the spring of 2019, including historic locomotives and dining cars. Key acquisitions include the Southern Dining Car 3307, obtained from Amtrak, the Louisville and Nashville…

Remembering Joyce H. Soule: A Pillar of TVRM The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) is deeply saddened to announce the passing of our cherished life member and tireless volunteer, Joyce H. Soule, on January 25, 2019. Surrounded by her loving family, Joyce, a stalwart of Chattanooga for 60 years, left behind an incredible legacy. The…

Join Us This Giving Tuesday to Preserve Railroad Heritage Today marks a global day of generosity, #GivingTuesday, a time when communities around the world come together in the spirit of giving. The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) is proud to take part in this movement, with a focused mission to preserve railroad heritage and increase…

Celebrate Veterans with a Historic Train Trip Join us as we commemorate a century of valor and sacrifice on the 100th anniversary of Veterans Day. This landmark event is not just a nod to history, but a vibrant, living tribute to the brave men and women who have donned the uniform in service to our…

October is here, and with it, the breathtaking colors of southeastern autumn. The trees are ablaze with hues of gold, red, and orange, transforming the landscape into a vibrant tapestry. What better way to take in this natural spectacle than aboard the Summerville Steam Special? Tickets for this incredible journey are available here, and you…

The Grand Doubleheader: Steam Stars #4501 and #630 Return to Railfest (Now, Founder’s Day) Rail enthusiasts, history buffs, and casual admirers alike, this year’s Railfest promises an experience like no other. Two of Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum’s most iconic locomotives, Steam Stars #4501 and #630, are slated to make a grand entry, double-heading into the…

The Titans of the Tracks Return: Steam Engines 4501 and 630 This weekend, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) is proud to showcase the triumphant return of our two steam-powered titans – engines 4501 and 630. These locomotives are not just machines; they are living history, and our dedicated team has worked tirelessly to prepare…

Support the Restoration of Office Car #98 on Giving Tuesday Today, on #GivingTuesday, a movement that unleashes the power of radical generosity, we are reaching out to our community and rail enthusiasts with a special appeal. Our beloved Office Car #98, known as the Eden Isle, requires restoration to return it to its original splendor,…