Chattanooga Steam Reunion DVD
By Pentrex

25th Anniversary of Norfolk Southern's Steam Excursions

Railfans gathered in Chattanooga, Tennessee, on the first weekend in November, 1991, to celebrate the 25th Anniversary of Norfolk Southern's steam excursion service. Twenty-five years earlier, the Southern Railway sponsored a steam-powered excursion from Louisville, Kentucky, to Richmond, Virginia, and the success of that excursion led to the growth of steam programs across the country. The locomotive pulling that historic train, the Southern 4501, is the guest of honor at this year's jamboree.

The weekend events begin as Pentrex captures the impressive Norfolk & Western engine No. 611 "J" pulling a 20-car train into Chattanooga. The 611 looks better than ever after having spent much of the summer undergoing repairs. Waiting to greet the 611 is the mighty "A," the Norfolk & Western 1218.

The main attraction, Southern 4501, puts on a grand show as it pulls a special excursion to Hollywood, Alabama. On Sunday morning, the bright green Mikado is again honored by leading a triple-headed steam train out of Chattanooga. The proud engine is in its glory as it leads the 611, the 1218, and 28 passenger cars out of town.

As an added bonus, this DVD provides exclusive coverage of the banquet held at the Chattanooga Choo-Choo. Pentrex gives you a front row seat at this historic gathering. Modern-day rail giants W. Graham Claytor and Robert Claytor talk about their roles in the steam excursions and how, as railroad executives and railfans, they pursued their dreams. It's humorous and informative. So, come along with us to see the sights, hear the sounds and learn about our railroad heritage - at the Chattanooga Steam Reunion!