Historic Trains

Chasing Autumn Aboard East Tennessee’s Iconic Trains Autumn is a magical time in East Tennessee. As the leaves begin to turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, the region becomes a picturesque landscape, inviting visitors and locals alike to indulge in the wonders of the season. And what better way to immerse oneself in…

All Aboard for Autumn: Journey to Summerville with 4501 The rustling of leaves, the crispness in the air, and the golden hues painting the landscape – fall is undeniably magical. And what better way to immerse oneself in this enchantment than aboard a train, chugging along scenic routes and offering panoramic views of nature’s autumnal…

4501 Shines Like a Star: A Journey Through Time and Magic Step aboard the legendary Steam Engine 4501 for a unique adventure that blends the past with a touch of wizarding wonder! Whether you’re a fan of railroading history or enchanted by the mystical, we’ve got something for everyone. Explore the Summerville Steam Special, where…

All Aboard the Autumn Dinner Train! The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is thrilled to announce the addition of special Autumn Dinner Train dates! This fall, embark on a nostalgic journey back to the Golden Age of Railroading and indulge in a delightful three-course meal while the history of Chattanooga unfolds around you. Event Details: Duration:…

Many visitors are familiar with the museum’s flagship locomotive 4501, and although it continues in operation at TVRM much as it did in the 1930s, the tender behind it was not always behind 4501. This ‘new’ tender was sourced to carry additional coal and water, in the Southern excursion era, after it was discovered on…

Big news from the crew at Soule Shops- steam star #630 will roll into service tonight on the Evening Ridge Runner! We are so excited to have this beautiful 119 year old steam engine running and she will be leading the way on the Missionary Ridge Local all weekend. Be sure to ask the station…

The Origins and Evolution of the Chattanooga Choo Choo The story of the Chattanooga Choo Choo is a rich tapestry interwoven with history, music, and the transformation of a city. What began as a mere song eventually elevated Chattanooga, Tennessee, into an internationally recognized icon. Origins of the Name The Chattanooga Choo Choo initially referred…

The Legacy of the Chattanooga Choo Choo The Chattanooga Choo Choo is not just a song, but a symbol of transformation, history, and cultural significance for Chattanooga, Tennessee. Originally a wood-burning steam locomotive that began its journey in March 1880, the Chattanooga Choo Choo connected Cincinnati and Chattanooga, marking a pivotal moment in post-Civil War…

TVRM Gratefully Acknowledges John Emery Rail Heritage Trust Grant We are deeply appreciative to have been awarded a grant of $20,000 from the John Emery Rail Heritage Trust. Notably, half of this grant, amounting to $10,000, was received in mid-2022. This generous funding is instrumental in facilitating numerous enhancements to the dining car #899, known…

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…