Welcome to Cornelia, Georgia, home of the Big Red Apple—a monument that stands as a testament to the region’s vibrant agricultural history. Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Cornelia is a small town rich in historical significance and cultural heritage. The Big Red Apple, weighing 5,200 pounds and standing over seven feet tall, is a striking symbol of Cornelia’s past as a major apple shipping hub in the early 1900s.
The story of Cornelia begins in the 1870s, when it was originally called ‘Blaine.’ The town emerged when the Charlotte Airline Railroad extended its line to this point, marking it as a vital railway stop. In 1887, the Georgia General Assembly incorporated it as the ‘Town of Cornelia.’ This name change marked the beginning of Cornelia’s journey to becoming a central player in the apple industry, thanks to its fertile lands and ideal climate.
A pivotal moment in Cornelia’s history occurred in 1925 when the Big Red Apple monument was erected. This monument was a collaborative effort, involving organizations like the Southern Railway, Georgia Power, and the Apple Orchards Association. Unveiled to a cheering crowd on June 4, 1926, the Big Red Apple was a gift from the Southern Railway to honor the town’s thriving apple industry. Headlines from the time heralded the event, with thousands attending the ceremony next to the train depot.
Cornelia’s significance extends beyond agriculture. It was also a crucial location for the production of the 1956 Disney film ‘The Great Locomotive Chase.’ The town’s scenic railway lines and historical ambiance made it an ideal backdrop for this Civil War-era story.
Another notable figure associated with Cornelia is baseball legend Ty Cobb, who retired here, adding a layer of fame to this quaint town. He was one of the many individuals who have contributed to the rich tapestry of Cornelia’s history.
The Big Red Apple has seen its fair share of changes over the decades. A restoration mishap in 2021 temporarily left it with a pinkish hue, but it has since been restored to its iconic red color. This landmark continues to be a focal point for community gatherings and celebrations, including the annual Big Red Apple Festival.
Today, Cornelia stands as a reminder of the past, its stories etched in the monuments and buildings that populate this charming town. Whether you’re passing by or exploring the area, take a moment to appreciate the Big Red Apple and all it represents—a pivotal piece of Cornelia’s, and indeed Georgia’s, agricultural heritage.
