How the Railroad Shaped Blue Ridge, GA

When people think of Blue Ridge, GA images of the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway train cars, Lake Blue Ridge, the busy streets now filled with tourists, unique shops, and restaurants, and the winding hiking trails and waterfalls enjoyed by many come to mind. It is hard to imagine a time when this area was nothing but woods and a small town center just a few generations ago. 


Blue Ridge, GA was incorporated in 1887 as the Marietta and North Georgia Railway expanded into the area in 1886, and in 1895 the seat of Fannin County was moved from Morganton, GA to Blue Ridge, GA. By the early 1900s the M&NG Line had been purchased and was renamed The Louisville & Nashville Railroad and Blue Ridge Depot, still in Downtown Blue Ridge, was constructed in 1905. The train line facilitated economic movement and passenger travel and was crucial to many; however, by 1951 no more passenger trains ran in the area. 


In the 1990s locals came together and revitalized the railroad, restoring it, and the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway began passenger excursions in 1998. On average, the BRSR carries around 78,000 passengers per year and It is noteworthy to see the thread of importance the railway has played not only in the creation of this town but in the longevity and growth of the town dearly loved by so many. 


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https://brscenic.com

How the Railroad Shaped Blue Ridge, GA
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