Locomotive Restoration Updates

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….

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…