Unique Restoration

Journey Through Time: The Legacy of Southern Railway Wreck Crane No. 903008 In the heart of our workshop, history reverberates as we service our iconic Southern Railway wreck crane, No. 903008. A Storied History Constructed in 1917 by the renowned Bucyrus Company, this crane has seen a century’s worth of rail history. Originally believed to…

Today for “Throwback Thursday,” Southern Railway 630 leads a TVRM Missionary Ridge Local trip out of East Chattanooga in the mid-1980s.  Though clothing styles have changed since the 80s, you can still experience the same nostalgia of historic steam and passenger equipment with the Southern 630 from 1904 leading our Missionary Ridge Local excursions this…

Last week, new batteries were installed in F7A locomotive 576, and the engine had all accessible light bulbs replaced. As a result, another major step in the locomotive’s return to service was accomplished. Once returned to service, the 576 will dethrone the 710 as the oldest operating diesel locomotive in our collection, as it was…

Today, August 11, marks 62 years since we were chartered in 1961 to preserve the golden age of the American Railroad! Over the years we’ve seen changes in the “outside world” that make us seem even more dated than we were in 1961, we’ve endured many trying times that threatened to end our existence, we’ve…

The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) is known for its impressive collection of historic locomotives and passenger cars, but the richness of our collection extends beyond these classic examples of rail transport. Among our diverse assortment of railroad artifacts, the 1941 Railway Express Agency Studebaker delivery truck holds a unique place. Fresh out of the…

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…

The Resilient Journey of Southern Railway 630 The sight of the Southern Railway 630 billowing steam stands as a testament to history, resurrected. Brought to life in 1904 by the American Locomotive Company (ALCO), the 630, with its Class K designation, has witnessed transformative events in the world of railroading. Its signature 2-8-0 wheel arrangement,…