Locomotive Restoration

Revitalizing a Legacy: Behind-the-Scenes at Soule Repair Shops with 4501’s Annual Inspection Nestled in the heart of the Soule Repair Shops, a meticulous and passionate team works tirelessly on the annual inspection of the iconic 4501. The efforts of this team bring together a blend of expertise and passion, ensuring the historic locomotive is both…

Doug Karhan: A Steward of Steam’s Legacy The world of steam locomotion and railway heritage has recently bid farewell to one of its unsung heroes. Doug Karhan, a venerated master mechanic of steam for Norfolk Southern from 1982 until the end of excursions in 1994, passed away on November 11, 2021. His legacy is a…

Revitalizing History: Former Army SW8 #2000’s New Paint Job There’s a fresh coat of history on the tracks! The former Army SW8 #2000 locomotive has undergone a remarkable transformation, receiving a stunning new paint job as it prepares to serve at the facility of our latest customer. This locomotive, seasoned by years of diligent service…

Back by popular demand, this weekend the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) presents a one-of-a-kind experience for steam enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The Summerville Steam Special is offering a rare steam in the valley experience, allowing passengers to journey back in time. 4501 Dressed as L&N 1593 – A Historical Tribute Loyal fans of…

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…

Great news, steam train enthusiasts! This weekend promises to be a memorable one at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM). It’s not just a regular weekend; it’s a great weekend of steam that you’ll remember for years to come. Steam Star #630 – The Summerville Steam Special The real star of the show will be…

Rediscovering the Glory: Southern Railway’s 5000 Dons New Paint As enthusiasts of railway heritage, we’re thrilled to announce a spectacular revival at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM). Fresh out of the paint shop, the Southern Railway’s 5000, a beacon of American railroad history, has been meticulously restored to its former glory. Purchased in 1972,…

The Art of Preservation: Restoring TAG #80 to Original Glory At the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, history isn’t just stored — it’s revived. One of our latest endeavors, the restoration of TAG 80, is a testament to that mission. This isn’t just any locomotive; it’s the first production GP38 ever made by EMD. Understanding the…

Grady Ragan: 50 Years of Dedication to TVRM’s Historic Rail Legacy In the heart of railway history, there’s a name that echoes with dedication and craftsmanship: Grady Ragan. For over five decades, Grady has been an integral part of the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM), contributing significantly to the preservation and restoration of historic rail…

The Renaissance of Southern Railway 4501: A Journey Through Time The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) has always been a place where history comes alive, and the recent installation of a new roller bearing trailing truck underneath the firebox of the Southern Railway 4501 steam engine is a perfect example of this commitment to preserving…