Blaine and Diane Smith, an African American couple from Sparta, Georgia, are standing strong against the Sandersville Railroad Co., who wants to take 11 acres of their 600-acre family land for a new rail spur. A judge recently sided with the railroad, but the Smiths are planning to appeal the decision.
The land, which Blaine’s grandfather bought back in the 1920s, holds deep meaning for the family—it’s been a place of food, education, and precious memories. The proposed 4.5-mile rail line would cut through a historically Black neighborhood and disrupt the peace of their property.
Blaine shared with Capital B News, “We’ve had to fight to keep this land. There’s always someone trying to trick you into giving it up. People try to hunt on it, trespass… it’s gonna be even easier for them if they put a railroad through the middle of it. Honestly, everything about this bothers me.”
The railroad company argues that the new spur will benefit the local economy, reduce truck traffic, and create jobs. Company president, Benjamin Tarbutton III, has said they understand the Smiths’ concerns and are open to further talks. They’ve already worked out agreements with most of the other 18 landowners affected by the project.
However, the Smiths, with support from the Institute for Justice, feel the rail project doesn’t serve a real public interest. They’re worried about potential damage to their property, increased noise, and trespassing. They’re not backing down from this fight.
“We’re going to fight until we can’t anymore,” Diane said. “I don’t want to leave any stone unturned. My grandmother used to say, ‘No stone unturned,’ so that’s what we’ll keep doing—turning over every stone.”
The case is now heading to the Georgia Supreme Court, and the family is ready to continue their battle to protect their land and legacy.
