School Field Trips and Education

The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) was honored to participate in Dalewood Middle School’s recent career fair, showcasing the importance and intricacies of railroad museum work. Connecting the past with the present and projecting the future of railroads is vital, and we were thrilled to provide students with a glimpse into the fascinating world of…

Day Out With Thomas 2023: Chugging into Chattanooga’s Heart! The chug of a train’s engine, the shrill whistle cutting through the air, and the bright, unmistakable blue of Thomas the Tank Engine emerging from a cloud of steam – these are the sights and sounds that have captured the hearts and imaginations of children (and…

Behind the Scenes: Replacing a Locomotive’s Traction Motor As many of you know, most diesel locomotives are not going to be “direct drive” units, but are powered using a “diesel-electric” system. This system works by having the unit’s diesel motor (prime mover in railroad vernacular) turn a generator to create electricity, which is then sent…

Restoring the GP7 Diesel: A Gritty Undertaking! In the bustling heart of our shop, an old warrior awaited attention. The GP7 diesel number 1829, constructed in 1951, had seen better days. Its sand lines, crucial components for ensuring grip and stability, were in dire need of replacement. Over an intensive two-day period, Zach and Travis…

We’re excited to unveil our most recently completed passenger car project – Coach 1480, named after Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, located in Blacksburg, Virginia. This historic gem, steeped in decades of railway history, is set to enter service today, and here’s everything you need to know about it! The Origin: A Sleeping Car’s…

Attention all Thomas the Tank Engine fans! The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) is excited to invite you to the last weekend of the unforgettable Day Out with Thomas event on April 22, 2022. It’s not just a train ride; it’s a day filled with wonder, excitement, and an array of engaging activities. Here’s a…

Calling all Thomas the Tank Engine fans and families! The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) is thrilled to announce the Day Out With Thomas event, and the countdown has begun. With April 23rd fast approaching, this is your last chance to grab tickets for a memorable day filled with fun, play, and adventure. Ride, Play…

Christmas Shopping at TVRM: A Festive Train Lover’s Paradise! It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM), we’re embracing the festive spirit in full swing! For those who have a passion for locomotives or are seeking that unique gift for a loved one, TVRM is the place…

DAY OUT WITH THOMAS™ IS PULLING INTO TENNESSEE VALLEY RAILROAD MUSEUM FOR AN OUTDOOR PARTY YOU WON’T WANT TO MISS! Chattanooga, TN 04.14.21 All aboard! Thomas the Tank Engine will be hosting outdoor events at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum on May 1, 2, 8, 15, & 16, 2021. With extensive health and safety…

Embark on a Magical Journey: The North Pole Limited Train Ride Christmas is a time for magic, wonder, and creating memories that last a lifetime. At TVRM, we bring that festive magic to life with our North Pole Limited train ride, an event that has been a cherished family tradition since 1999. Captured beautifully in…