This restored caboose stands near the Depot, room for future expansion.
around the railroad. The first depot was erected in 1879. The first passenger train came through Spring City on July 4, 1879. The last passenger train from Spring City to Chattanooga ran in June, 1964. Freight service was discontinued in 1971. The depot building in the heart of Spring City, Tennessee was constructed in 1907 and became an architectural centerpiece for the town. It has recently been restored to its historic splendor and now houses the local Chamber of Commerce and a newly opened historic museum. The historic museum was opened in the depot on May 10, 2008.
A handcrafted, scale model of 1950s-era Front Street is a focal point of the museum.
tell the history of Rhea Springs, Tennessee, Spring City, TVA, Spring City High School, the tragic bus-train accident of 1955 in which 11 children were killed, the “great” flood of 1957, and many other stories. The focal point of the museum is a wonderful 4 ft wide x 16 ft wide handcrafted, scale model of Front Street circa 1945-1955. There are many more permanent and revolving displays planned for the museum.
The Rhea Springs exhibit features original ironwork from the Grand Hotel gate.
in 1941 when the waters of Watts Bar Lake began to rise. The nationally acclaimed resort of the late 1800’s-early 1900’s was a stagecoach stop along the national route connecting Washington, D.C. with New Orleans. The waters of the resort were reported to have great medicinal value and guests flocked to the resort to take advantage of the healing powers of the waters. The Grand Hotel offered “5-Star” accommodations and included a bowling alley, a billiard room, canoeing, golfing, and many other activities. All that is left of the community are foundations of houses that now rest under the waters of Watts Bar Lake. The story of Rhea Springs is told in detail and includes the original iron gate which was the entrance to the Grand Hotel.
Spring City is located on U.S. Highway 27/State Hwy 29 approximately 50 miles north of Chattanooga, TN. on Hwy. 27. The intersection of US Hwy 27 and State Hwy 68 is located in Spring City.
The Depot is the focal point of the linear front street area of the community and is readily visible from the highway.
Evening Hours for large groups are available by calling the Chamber of Commerce at (423) 365-5210. Someone with the museum will then return your call to schedule the time with your group.
While you are in Spring City take advantage of the beautiful mountain vistas, hiking trails, Watts Bar Lake, the beautiful Howard Johnson Hotel, and the scenic beauty of the area.