Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum

The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum Inc., a nonprofit organization, is dedicated to preserving and celebrating railroad history in the Chattanooga region. Founded in 1961, the museum serves as a testament to the pivotal role railroads played in shaping American history.

History

The organization was established by Paul H. Merriman and Robert M. Soule, Jr., along with other local enthusiasts, initially functioning as a chapter of the National Railway Historical Society. Their mission was to rescue steam locomotives and other railway equipment from being scrapped. Over the years, the museum has evolved into a dynamic heritage railroad, hosting various tourist excursions and educational programs.

Early Developments

In the 1960s, the group worked tirelessly to acquire a permanent facility. In 1969, they received a significant land donation from the Southern Railway, which included the historic Whiteside Tunnel, a key section of the Southern Railway's original route dating back to 1858. The tunnel is a major attraction and a key feature of the museum's heritage operations.

Facilities and Operations

The museum is headquartered in East Chattanooga and operates on a section of the former Southern Railway line, featuring a six-mile excursion route. This includes the Missionary Ridge Local, which passes through the Whiteside Tunnel. The museum offers a range of activities, including what is now known as the Hiwassee River Rail Adventures, a popular addition to its operations.

Notable Achievements

In 1980, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It has continued to expand, incorporating more tracks and buildings, including a turntable and repair shop. The museum has also been featured in several film productions, showcasing its historic locomotives.

Education and Preservation

The museum's primary mission is to collect, preserve, and operate historic railroad equipment, providing educational programs that highlight the role of railroads in regional development. Through its excursions and exhibitions, the museum aims to recreate an authentic railroading experience, fostering appreciation for a pivotal era in American transportation history.

Current Initiatives

The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum remains active in the preservation of steam locomotives, with notable examples like the Southern Railway's #630 and #4501. These locomotives are integral to the museum's excursions and educational missions, offering visitors the opportunity to experience first-hand the sights and sounds of vintage steam railroading.