Railroad History and Heritage

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…

Summerville Steam Special: An Unforgettable Journey Through Time Looking for a fall get away that combines breathtaking scenery, a taste of history, and a unique experience on the rails? Look no further than the Summerville Steam Special! This 8-hour round-trip journey from Chattanooga to the charming town of Summerville, Georgia is led by none other…

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…

Autumn is officially here, and the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) has the perfect weekend planned for you! Whether you’re looking to relax, indulge in gourmet dining, or enjoy a scenic adventure, TVRM’s fall offerings are sure to delight guests of all ages. Missionary Ridge Local: Running Weekends, this quick train ride offers a family-friendly…

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…

Ride into History This Founder’s Day Weekend: Celebrating the Final Days of Steam on the GM&O This Founder’s Day weekend, immerse yourself in the golden age of railroading at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM)!  We are excited to present Southern Railway 4501, dressed as Gulf Mobile & Ohio 4382, in a tribute to the…

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…

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…