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Tennessee Valley Railroad News

Southern Railway

Explore the illustrious history of the Southern Railway at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum. Discover meticulously restored locomotives and carriages that once traversed the Southern states, and learn how this iconic railway line played a crucial role in regional development and culture. Engaging exhibits and knowledgeable guides provide insights into the Southern Railway’s impact on industry, transportation, and the lives of those it served. Experience a piece of Southern heritage on a journey through railroading history.

Capture the Past: Exclusive Evening Photo Shoot with Vintage Locomotives on Founders Day at TVRM

As part of our September 9 Founders Day activities we are offering a special evening photo shoot with a number of our vintage equipment items. Photoshoot details: Duration: 1 hour and 15 minutesBring your best photography equipment and join us for an exclusive night photo session at our East Chattanooga location! Participants will have the…

Captivating Encounter with Norfolk Southern: Southern Railway E8 No. 6914 in Historic Meet-up

For Wednesday’s Atlanta bound NS inspection train, TVRM placed Southern Railway E8 6914, Central of Georgia combine car 390, TAG 80 and Southern Railway 50 on display at the end of the interchange track at Grand Junction.  In these two shots by Mike Ray you see the passing train and the display equipment and then…

Norfolk Southern Christmas Celebration: A Joyful Return at TVRM

The holiday season is an opportunity to come together, share joy, and appreciate each other’s company. After a pause of two years, the Chattanooga area employees of Norfolk Southern (NS) were once again able to gather at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) to celebrate their annual Christmas event. More than 400 employees and their…

Tennessee Valley Railroad: Preserving Chattanooga’s Rail History

Tennessee Valley Railroad: Preserving Chattanooga’s Rail History With an enduring presence spanning over six decades at Chattanooga’s Terminal Station, from its early days with the Southern Railway to its iconic stint with the Chattanooga Choo-Choo, the Tennessee Valley Railroad’s (TVRM) legacy remains deeply intertwined with the city’s rich railroading past. As times change and the…

Car No. 390: A Railway Gem’s Restoration Journey

Around the Shop: Car No. 390’s Revival Nestled in the heart of our shop, the historic Central of Georgia Railway combination (often referred to as a ‘combine’) car No. 390 has recently been stationed on track 7, awaiting some much-needed attention. This isn’t just any routine check-up. The ‘doctor’ – our team of expert restorers…

Rails of Valor: The Southern Railway’s WWII Legacy

In the midst of World War II, the role of the railroad was pivotal in ways that may surprise you. Beyond transporting civilians and goods, railroads like the Southern Railway stepped onto the front lines. They sponsored Railway Operating Battalions, an initiative that was critical for the Allied forces’ success. The Southern Railway’s 727th Railway…

A Glorious Journey: From Nancy Hanks II to the North Pole Limited – The Tale of Car 390

Stepping back in time, few could predict the storied life that Car 390 would lead. Built in 1947 by American Car and Foundry, this remarkable railway carriage first served the Central of Georgia’s famed train “the Nancy Hanks II”. As of recent, it is set to grace the tracks again in its original Central of…

Historic Office Car Returns to TVRM: A Journey from St. Louis to Chattanooga

Historic Office Car Returns to TVRM: A Journey from St. Louis to Chattanooga For those planning a road trip or simply commuting along Interstates 64, 57, or 24 between the vibrant city of St. Louis and the scenic Chattanooga this weekend, it’s essential to be vigilant. The forecast suggests potential inclement weather, which might make…

Smoke & Cinders (3rd Quarter 2018) – Doubleheading at TVRM

Doubleheading at TVRM If there’s anything more exciting than a train powered by a steam locomotive, it’s a train powered by two steam locomotives. Some of our most popular excursions include TVRM’s Summerville Steam Specials, when Southern 630 and 4501 are on the point. While these trips provide a lot of sensory stimulation, a more…

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September 12, 2018

Southern Railway 5000: A Historic Revival

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,…