Chuckey Depot Railroad Museum presents new exhibit

The Chuckey Depot Railroad Museum, located at 210 S. 2nd Avenue in Jonesborough, will open its newest exhibit, “Watauga Valley Railroad Historical Society & Museum: Preserving the History of the Rails,” on Thursday, October 1.

The exhibit will feature the history and photographs of six vintage Pullman passenger cars that have been restored by volunteer members of the Watauga Valley Railroad Historical Society & Museum (WVRHS&M).

Established in 1981, the WVRHS&M’s mission is to preserve the experience of rail travel in the Eastern United States through the restoration of vintage passenger cars, operation of the Chuckey Depot Railroad Museum, and sponsorship of train excursions for members and the general public.

At its Spring Street Coach Yard in Jonesborough, the WVRHS&M’s dedicated and talented mechanical team restores historic coaches, dining cars, and sleeping cars for use in active, certified rail service.

The new exhibit tells the story of the WVRHS&M’s passenger cars, which have individually served on railroads including the Atlantic Coast Line, Florida East Coast, Clinchfield, Norfolk & Western, and Southern railways. Visitors will have the opportunity to learn about the history of these vintage cars through photographs and historical information, while gaining a greater appreciation for the work involved in preserving them for future generations.

The Chuckey Depot Railroad Museum is located at 210 S. 2nd Avenue in Jonesborough. The museum is open Thursday, Friday, and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Admission is free, although donations are gratefully accepted. Donations help support the museum’s educational programming and exhibits.