If you have recently moved to Knoxville, you may be unfamiliar with the Three Rivers Rambler. Part tourist attraction, part local favorite, the Rambler is a scenic train ride that travels around the Tennessee River. In 2013, engine No. 154’s antique bell was stolen, but it was recently recovered. The city held a special ceremony to celebrate its return.

Engine No. 154 is an 1890 coal-fired steam engine that was donated to Knoxville in 1953 and began pulling trains in 2010. Its bell was a piece of history, so Knoxville city officials were very upset when it was stolen. They were surprised too, because the bell weighs about 200 pounds! It was found when the Knoxville County Sheriff’s Office raided the home of 54-year-old Gary Valentine. They found other stolen property like cars too.

During the celebration ceremony, No. 154’s donated replacement bell was removed and a crane placed its original bell back in place. The replacement bell is now in operation on steam engine No. 203. Doc Claussen, President of Three Rivers Rambler, said he was elated when he heard the bell was found.

If you have recently moved to town, your Knoxville moving company recommends that you take your kids for a ride on the Three Rivers Rambler. It is currently closed for winter, but it will reopen this spring. The 90-minute ride board in downtown Knoxville takes you down a scenic Tennessee route. You and your family will get to appreciate Knoxville’s natural beauty and gain a better understanding of the city’s history.