The Tiny Railroad Town In Georgia That Survived Against All Odds

Georgia has quite a hand in how the railroad flourished in the South many decades ago, and in fact, there were a lot of towns in Georgia that were constructed because of the railroad. While some of those places ended up becoming ghost towns after the railroad boom died down, there is one tiny railroad town in Georgia that survived against all odds. Take a look…

The history behind the railroad town of Valdosta, Georgia is quite a fascinating one.

Valdosta didn’t exist until the 1860s, when the nearby town of Troupeville passed on having the Atlantic Railroad lay their tracks.

This decision led Troupville to become defunct, and four miles west popped up Valdosta—where most residents moved immediately.

For a town that was created for the sole purpose of the railroad, it has sure withstood the test of time.

The very first train named The Satilla No. 3 pushed through and arrived in Valdosta on July 4, 1860.

It was once rumored that the sixty miles of railway between Valdosta and Waycross was the longest straight stretch in the entire world.

What’s most interesting about Valdosta, Georgia, was that this town became a place of refugee after the American Civil War.

Valdosta was thankfully far away from the battles, and people came from all over to escape the chaos.

Not only did Valdosta survive when the railroad quieted down, but in fact, it flourished.

In 1910 Valdosta was voted by Fortune magazine as the richest city in America per capita income due to their booming cotton industry.

Today, Valdosta has been nicknamed A City Without Limits.

And when you think back to where this this tiny railroad town started, the nickname seems absolutely fitting.

Have you ever visited Valdosta, Georgia? Share with us your experience! Otherwise, if you’re looking for more small town Georgia adventures, check out The Most Georgia Town Ever And Why You Need To Visit.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

Marisa Roman

A New Jersey native with over 15 years of writing experience, Marisa has studied at both New York University and Florida International University. She has lived all over the country, including a decade stint in South Florida. Marisa is well-versed in exploration as she travels a good majority of the year in her self-converted Sprinter van. Her articles have been featured in various notable publications over the years, she has a published collection of short stories, and three completed screenplays under her belt.

The Tiny Railroad Town In Georgia That Survived Against All Odds

Georgia In Your Inbox