PICKENS COUNTY, Ga. – The Model Train that Bill and Susan Gibson decided to donate in 2021 is one step closer to coming home to Tate Depot.

At the time of the initial offer to donate Mr. Gibson’s model train, Tate Depot was empty and not suitable to properly house it. Valerie Bates is directing the renovations under contract with Pickens County. Some of the improvements include: a security system, air conditioning, heating and insulation. Because of these improvements, Tate Depot is now ready to host the model train. The changes to Tate Depot will not affect its historic integrity.

According to Pickens County Commission Chairman, Kris Stancil, the set up is “pretty fascinating.” Chairman Stancil has been heavily involved in the efforts to make the model train accessible to the public.  But, the complete model is not yet available for public viewing. Mr. Stancil anticipates that it will be several more months before the model train is ready for public viewing.

Although the idea of moving a model train from Mr. Gibson’s home to Tate Depot might seem simple, there has been a lot of planning and behind the scene work to facilitate the move. The Jasper Roundhouse train club has become instrumental in moving  different parts of the model to insure safe delivery.

In the future, when all the construction will be complete, Chairman Stancil expressed that he hopes that the model train will become a fascinating attraction for anyone who wishes to see trains in action.

The future looks bright as completion of the project draws near.