Central of Georgia

Central of Georgia. . Welcome to the Central of Georgia railroad repair shops of Savannah . You are entering the heart of the Central of Georgia railroad complex in Savannah. This " miniature city " produced much of what was needed for the construction and repair of locomotives and train cars. It handled administration, passenger and freight activities. Most of these buildings were constructed in the 1850's or 1920's. The Central of Georgia was a major employer and a driving economic force in the state and region. The move from steam to diesel locomotives shifted work to the Macon complex. The Savannah facilities closed in 1963. . Today the complex is owned by the City of Savannah. The Coastal Heritage Society began restoration and rehabilitation activities in 1989. This massive effort continues along with increasing visitor opportunities. In 1996, the Georgia State Legislature designated it the Georgia State Railroad Museum. . . ( Bottom ) . [ Timeline ] . 1893 State of Georgia charters Central Railroad and Canal Company . . 1836 Railroad shops construction begins north of Louisville Road . . 1843 Railroad track to Macon completed . . 1855 Railroad shops completed south of Louisville Road . . 1866 Repairs made after Civil War damage . . 1895 Central Railroad enters receivership; reorganizes as the Central of Georgia Railway . . 1910 Macon rail shops built . . 1923 Fire partially destroys Savannah shops . . 1927 Company builds employee hospital in Savannah . . 1940 First use of Diesel locomotives . . 1952 End of steam locomotive use . . 1963 Southern Railway buys and closes Savannah shops . . 1967 Citizens commission begins acquiring site . . 1972 City of Savannah acquires site . . 1978 Passenger station and rail shops designated National Landmark District . This historical marker was erected by Coastal Heritage Society. It is in Savannah in Chatham County Georgia