(Media release from City of Summerville Main Street):
Summerville is home to one of only a few operating train turntables in the southeastern United States, and is truly a step back in time for train and history buffs alike. The City of Summerville is proud to announce the return of the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum Steam Engines to the Historic Summerville Depot on Saturday, September 16. The Summerville Turntable will work again for the first time since 2019. A double steam engine arrival and a Chili & Brunswick Stew Cook-Off, celebrating with live music and vendors will be a highlight for the welcome back return on September 16th.
Summerville Steam Special Chili & Brunswick Stew Cook-Off
The Summerville Steam Special Chili & Brunswick Stew Cook-Off event will be held at The Summerville Depot during the hours of 10:00 a.m. through 3:00 p.m. Amateur teams will compete in a fun filled day of friendly and healthy competition. Attendees will be able to sample different Chili and Brunswick stew recipes and vote for their favorites in People’s Choice Taste and Best Team Theme/Spirit. Wristbands will be available for purchase on site for $5 beginning at 10:00 a.m. through 2:00 p.m. or until wristbands are sold out. It is not determined yet who will enjoy this event more, the competitor’s dressing up to serve event goers as they compete for the most spirited team or the die-hard cooks wanting to take home one of the coveted 1st Place Division cash prizes and trophies. Street vendors and live music will also fill the day. Admission is free and suggested parking is in Downtown Summerville. Interested competitors or vendors may email slocklear@summervillega.org for additional information on this event.
The City of Summerville and Summerville Main Street is also gearing up for a September 30th arrival of the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum Passenger Train, as well as “Steam into Summerville Railroad Days”. Steam Into Summerville Railroad Days is a 5-week celebration to usher in fall, along with train arrivals, and visitors each weekend beginning October 7th through November 5th.
Booking Train Excursions
Tickets for train excursions are purchased through the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum at www.tvrail.com . These vintage train rides follow a historic route from Grand Junction Station in Chattanooga to the Historic Summerville Depot. Summerville welcomes the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum and its passengers by opening the historic depot to the public and with activities, entertainment, and events planned for each train arrival. Each event hosted is unique to itself.
