Cornelia, Georgia Historic Train Depot
Cornelia Historic Train Depot

The railroad depot was originally called Blaine Station for the Republican presidential candidate James Gillespie Blaine. When the first charter of the town was secured by the attorney representing the railroad, Pope Barrow, the name was changed to Cornelia in honor of his wife. The official date of incorporation was October 22, 1887.

This painting was created by noted local artist, John Kollock for the cover of the publication "Cornelia, Georgia The first 100 years" and displayed here with permission. When the original terminal was damaged in 1910 in a fire, and rebuilt in 1914 ro its current appearance.

Beautifully restored, the Train Depot in Downtown Cornelia is a fine example of the architecture in early days of the city.

Noted local artist Tom Mewborn offers many illustrations of Cornelia in the 30's through the 60's.
Rev. Mewborn is the Pastor of the of Demorest Baptist Church . His prints are sold by several local art stores.
This illustration highlights the regular train run between Cornelia and Talullah Falls.

Cornelia is the home of the "Big Red Apple," a monument which forms the basis of the annual "Big Red Apple Festival."
This large red apple (seven feet tall, 22 feet in circumference, and 5,200 pounds), constructed of steel and concrete
in 1925, stands on a concrete pedestal eight feet tall and six feet square (at the base).

Call in advance for the schedule to visit the museum.

The telephone area code is (706)

A fully restored caboose from Southern Railroad is open to visitors during festivals and celebrations at the Depot.

Visitors are invited to tour the rail car.

The inside of the car is fully restored.

Across the street from the Depot are many historic buildings and businesses. A walking tour, sponsored
by the Habersham County Historical Society, is offered during special events in the city.

Inside the terminal waiting room is a museum of early railroad memorabilia.

The collection is increasing as more authentic items are acquired.

The restoration of the depot is sponsored by local citizens, businesses, and the city.

A model of the Talullah Falls train is on display.

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Another excellent illustration by Tom Mewborn features the businesses across the street from the Depot.

Apples are an important part of the history of the city.

Several local festivals and celebrations are held at the Train Depot each year.

A caboose from the original Tallulah Falls Railroad is on permanent display at the terminal.
This is the site of live shows during festivals.
The dances are called Mountain Clogging, and the dancers are called Cloggers.

Passing trains toot their horn to salute the historic terminal.

Sunset at the Depot.

Passing train in the rain.

Fog at Christmas.

Santa comes to Cornelia in a special train at the Depot.

Red Apple Dedication Parade - 1925. In front of the First Methodist Church, Cornelia.

Apple Blossom Festival each year in early April features live entertainment, crafts booths, food ,and education.

Night scene Christmas 2007

Time Capsule is near the Big Red Apple

The "First 100 Years" of Cornelia, Georgia Booklet is available here. Because of the file size, the booklet is in two parts.

Download the free Adobe PDF viewer from www.adobe.com to view these pages.

History of Cornelia

The Good Old Days

More information is available on various websites. Click HERE and HERE.

Other informative websites are HERE and HERE

More HERE

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