Where is The General train now?

The General: A Restored Icon of Railway Heritage

The General, a renowned steam locomotive, has found its permanent home at the Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History in Kennesaw, Georgia. After a prolonged legal dispute, the locomotive was meticulously restored to its former glory and now serves as a tangible symbol of railroad history.

The General: A Historical Icon

Built in 1855, The General was a pivotal player in the Great Locomotive Chase of 1862, a daring raid during the American Civil War. Union soldiers seized the locomotive from Confederate forces in Big Shanty, Georgia, and attempted to drive it north to Chattanooga, Tennessee. Confederate raiders pursued relentlessly, resulting in a thrilling chase and a dramatic derailment.

Restoration and Recognition

Following the war, The General underwent several ownerships and modifications. In 1926, it was purchased by the Tennessee Valley Authority and donated to the Atlanta Historical Society. In the 1960s, the locomotive became the subject of a legal battle over its rightful ownership, which was ultimately resolved in favor of the Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History.

Under the museum’s care, The General underwent a comprehensive restoration that returned it to its original 1855 appearance. In 1973, it was designated a National Historic Landmark, recognizing its exceptional significance in American transportation history.

A Symbol of Railway Heritage

Today, The General stands as a testament to the ingenuity and engineering prowess of the early railroad era. Its restored exterior and detailed interior transport visitors back to a time when steam locomotives were the driving force of industry and transportation.

The Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History provides the perfect backdrop for The General’s display. The museum’s extensive collection of locomotives, artifacts, and exhibits offers a comprehensive exploration of railway history, from the Civil War to the present day.

Visitors to the museum can marvel at The General’s impressive presence and gain a deeper appreciation for the role of railroads in shaping American history. The locomotive’s restored glory serves as a reminder of the innovation, adventure, and sacrifice that marked the early days of rail travel.