| This mural is located just off the square in Colquitt GA and pays homage to the railroad that passes through town. Colquitt is located between Bainbridge and Columbus GA. The railroad through Colquitt began life in 1895 as the Georgia Pine RR but was renamed the Georgia, Florida, and Alabama in 1901. In 1927 the GFA was leased to the Seaboard Airline RR and later became entirely owned by the SAL. Colquitt lasted into the SCL, Family Lines, and CSX days until leased to the GA Southwestern which was later sold to the GWI lines. GWI retains the GA Southwestern name and trains still pass through on a daily basis today. The artist takes a bit of liberty in the mural while paying respect to Colquitt's railroading past. Note on the track to the right the agent appears to be unloading a flag drapped coffin. This coupled with the style of pick up truck and locomotive would indicate the scene is from the early 1940's WWII days when no doubt many of Colquitt's brave sons and daughters returned home from their service to their country in this manner. However the locomotive on the left is lettered for the GF&A railroad which would have been out of existence by this time. The historical lapses are minor and it is a wonderful mural that perhaps has caused some of Colquitt's younger citizens to investigate the importance of the railroad to this area. |