Georgia Southern and Florida Railway facts for kids

The Georgia Southern and Florida Railway (often called the Suwanee River Route) was a railroad company that helped connect cities in Georgia and Florida. It got its nickname because it crossed the famous Suwanee River. This railway played a big part in moving people and goods across the southeastern United States.

The Story of the Suwanee River Route

The Georgia Southern and Florida Railway started way back in 1885. It was first known as the Georgia Southern and Florida Railroad. Its trains began running in 1889, connecting Macon, GA and Valdosta, GA. By 1890, the line stretched even further, reaching Palatka, FL.

However, the company faced money troubles and went bankrupt by 1891. But it didn't stay down for long! In 1895, it was reorganized and became the Georgia Southern and Florida Railway. Soon after, the larger Southern Railway took control of it.

In 1902, the GS&F bought another railway, the Atlantic, Valdosta and Western Railway. This added a route from Valdosta to Jacksonville, FL. The GS&F also owned a couple of other smaller railways, but they eventually went out of business. Today, the Georgia Southern and Florida Railway is part of the Norfolk Southern Railway system. You can even still see some Norfolk Southern trains with the old "GSF" reporting marks!

Where the Trains Ran

In the late 1980s, the railway line south of Lake City, Florida was no longer used. Part of this old route is now a fun path called the Palatka-Lake Butler State Trail.

The rest of the original line is still active today! It's operated by the Norfolk Southern Railway. The section from Macon to Valdosta is called Norfolk Southern's Macon District. The part from Valdosta to Navair (just south of Lake City) is known as the Navair District.

Important Stops Along the Way

Here are some of the main stations and towns the Georgia Southern and Florida Railway served: