STREET PARK
RAILROAD STREET PARK
HISTORIC DEPOT &
NICKI MEYER MARKETPLACE
THE HARTWELL RAILROAD
The Hartwell Railroad Company dates back to1878 when the company was chartered to build a 3 ft (914 mm) narrow gauge rail line between Hartwell and Bowersville in Hart County, Georgia. The10-mile railroad was completed the following year. In1898, it was reorganized as the Hartwell Railway. Southern Railway gained control of the line in 1902, had it converted to 4 ft 8+1⁄2 in (1,435 mm) standard gauge, and sold the line in 1924.
For more on the History of the Hartwell Railroad, you can click here.
TRAIN DEPOT BUILDING
During Phase One of the revitalization project, TORCH renovated the Historic Depot Building. Scroll through the photos to the right to see the transformation.
Funded solely through grants and generous donations, the building received a new roof, electrical, restrooms, and paint.
Rent the remodeled Train Depot Building for small events like birthday parties, meetings, and other gatherings that are less than 23 people
Original Hartwell Train Depot with large Grain silo's in the background.
Hartwell Train Depot prior to TORCH Renovations.
Hartwell Train Depot after TORCH Renovations.
Original Hartwell Train Depot with large Grain silo's in the background.
After Renovation
Hartwell Train Depot after remodel completed
Interior of Hartwell Train Depot after remodel
Interior of Hartwell Train Depot after remodel.
Hartwell Train Depot after remodel completed
Before Renovation
VISION
Railroad Street in downtown Hartwell has been long overdue for a remodel and revitalization. This project will improve not only the aesthetics of our already charming small town but increase visitors and patrons to the many small businesses in our downtown area. It will also protect the heritage of the Railroad and Depot which is an important part of Hartwell's History.
IMPROVING AN OLD EYESORE
The depot has been completely remodeled and revitalized to showcase its historical charm. Project volunteers were tasked with cleaning out the depot building and salvaging as much as possible. Striving to retain and reuse as much of the original building as possible. The original ticket window remains in place as it was, and the original signage, light fixtures and the original wood stove were salvaged and refurbished.
ENCOURAGE VISITORS TO DOWNTOWN
Once competed, Railroad Street Park will be home to a splash pad for the children, walking path, benches and the "Nicki Meyer Marketplace". The Park was designed to encourage locals and visitors to patronize small businesses and linger in the downtown area.
