This is a wonderful little museum nestled at the foot of the Cumberland Mountains that warrants your visit. Outdoor prototype equipment (in Railroad Park) includes a 1920 Porter Engine, L&N Flatbed, NC&StL Caboose, and NC&StL GE 44-ton diesel locomotive.
Indoor displays cover railroading though the years. The Cowan Mountain Tunnel, built between 1849 and 1982 is represented in photos and a 30 minute video. Sorry, but there is no public access to the tunnel, as it is still in use by CSX as an active mainline.
You will truly be amazed at what you will find in Cowan.