Rail fans will have a rare opportunity today as a historic steam locomotive arrives in downtown Summerville as part of the 2026 National Model Railroad Association Convention, being held this week in Chattanooga.
A special steam excursion connected to the 2026 National Model Railroad Association Convention and National Train Show will make a stop in Summerville on Thursday, July 30.
The national convention is being held in Chattanooga for the first time in its 90-year history and is expected to draw more than 1,000 registered attendees from around the world. Organizers also anticipate more than 15,000 visitors for the National Train Show.
As part of the convention, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum will operate a chartered steam excursion to Summerville with approximately 450 passengers aboard. Special permission was granted by the Chattooga & Chickamauga Railway for the weekday trip.
The steam locomotive, pulling 12 passenger cars, is expected to arrive at the Summerville Depot between 12:30 and 1 p.m. Passengers will have an opportunity to view the Summerville Railroad Turntable and enjoy a catered luncheon in Dowdy Park.
The excursion is scheduled to depart Summerville at approximately 2:45 p.m.
Motorists should be aware that the railroad crossings on East Washington Street and East First Avenue will be closed while the train is in Summerville. Drivers should expect delays and plan to use alternate routes during the closure.
Families are invited to celebrate Independence Day with a patriotic community gathering at the Summerville Train Depot on Saturday, July 4.
The City of Summerville will host “Stars & Stripes At The Depot” from noon until 3 p.m. at the historic depot in downtown Summerville.
The event is being held as part of the nation’s celebration of America’s 250th anniversary and will feature free sliced watermelon, patriotic music, and appearances by Uncle Sam. Organizers also announced that the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum’s passenger train, pulled by steam locomotive No. 4501, is expected to arrive during the event.
Visitors will also have an opportunity to see the Summerville Turntable in operation.
City officials encourage residents and visitors to bring their families and enjoy an afternoon of patriotic fun, local history, and community fellowship as the nation marks a significant milestone in its history.
The event is free and open to the public.