Canton, Georgia is known primarily for its historic downtown and outdoor activities. It’s as beautiful as it is charming, just 40 miles north of Atlanta and nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains along the Etowah River.
And right in downtown Canton, 11.5 acres of woodland magic are protected from development and home to something extraordinary: The Canton, St. Paul & Pacific Railway, a meticulously crafted 7.5” gauge live steam railroad. The phrase “live steam” refers to any scale model that operates in the same manner as the full-size prototype. “Live steam” can be stationary engines, traction engines, boats, and in this case, railroad locomotives.
The CStP&P Railway was incorporated for educational purposes and to expand general knowledge of the important role that railroads have played in our lives and history. This labor of love was built in 1999 and is maintained by a handful of hard-working members using mostly hand tools, picks, shovels, and steam or diesel locomotive power. It’s a hobby that relies on its members to acquire and share their knowledge while they also build friendships, community, and have fun.
When Bill Bryan heard about conservation easements in the early 2000s, he knew he’d found the perfect way to protect this special place forever. It’s not open to the public, but it carries deep meaning and significance.
The true economic value of this tract cannot be understated. It’s prime property in a region exploding with development. But the other values it holds are perhaps even larger, and difficult to quantify. The site provides green space within city limits, connectivity with other green spaces and natural areas, habitat and food sources for wildlife, buffer land for the Etowah River, scenic values, and retention of forested land near urban areas. The land provides resources that wildlife needs, while the CStP&P Railway enthusiasts get to do what they love in a protected, private setting.
This is what happens when an individual combines deep passion for a hobby with a vision for preservation. It might not seem like a typical conservation easement, but its existence on this property is right on track with FLC’s mission and work. (It’s also a very fun place for our staff to visit!)
