Southern Railway 154 pulled the Three Rivers Rambler for a final time in December 2023, working the grade through wet and foggy conditions with the Christmas Lantern Express.

After 13 years, this historic locomotive is due for an overhaul, with Washington & Lincolnton 203 – known as “Lindy” – expected to return for next year’s events. Built in 1890, Southern 154 served for six decades before retiring in 1953. It was displayed in Knoxville’s Chilhowee Park until 2008, when it was restored for the Rambler, which is operated by the shortline Knoxville and Holston River Railroad.