humbing through the annals of history, one quickly realizes the important role that the Central of Georgia Railway played in the development of Georgia and the South. The routes chosen by the company's original planners were well conceived and the transportation services offered have contributed significantly to the area's economic development. Although small when compared to many of the nation's larger rail systems, the Central's strategic routes to Florida and to Savannah on the Atlantic and its connections to the midwest heartlands made up for any size inequities. Equally important, the company was always at the forefront of innovation. For instance, automatic block signal installation began as early as 1889 and the benefits of dieselization were early realized. Additionally, the progressive Central offered two modern "in house" streamliners, the Nancy Hanks II and the Man O' War as well as an impressive fleet of midwest Florida trains. It was my pleasure to be in the service of this company for some fifty-three years.

William Dillard, last president of Central of Georgia

he Central Rail Road & Canal Company was organized in 1833 by a group of Savannah businessmen who were concerned that Charleston's new railroad to Augusta would bring a loss of shipping business for their port. Construction of their new line began in late 1835. Meanwhile the company decided to go into the banking business to attract capital investment in the railroad. To better reflect its new interests it changed its name to Central Rail Road and Banking Company of Georgia.

Georgia Railroad History and Heritage