February 17th 2025.
In the small town of Sparta, Georgia, there is a family that is facing a difficult battle. Blaine and Diane Smith, who are African American, are determined to keep their land despite a recent ruling by a judge. The ruling stated that a railroad company, Sandersville Railroad, could take 11 acres of their land to build tracks. This decision has been a long time coming, as the Smiths have been fighting against Sandersville's plans for several years now.
It is important to note that Sandersville Railroad is a white-owned company, while the town of Sparta has a rich history and community of African American families. The company has initiated eminent domain, which allows them to acquire the land as long as they fairly compensate the original owners. However, the Smiths have made it clear that they have no intention of selling their land.
Blaine shared with Capital B News that they have always had to fight to keep their land. They have faced challenges such as people trying to hunt or trespass on their property, and they fear that building a railroad through it will only make it easier for others to do so. Blaine's frustration is evident as he explains, "You asked me, 'What things bother me about it?' I mean, everything bothers me about it."
The Smiths have a strong connection to their land, which they inherited from their grandfather back in the 1920s. It has been a source of livelihood for generations, providing space for livestock and crops, as well as a place to call home. However, despite their strong ties to the land, the judge upheld a previous decision that deemed the rail spur necessary for the public good. While this may bring economic benefits to the area, it also means potential damage to the Smiths' property, where Blaine has planted trees.
The Smiths are not willing to back down and allow the sale to take place. Sandersville's representative, Benjamin Tarbutton III, has offered to "re-engage" in discussions about how the spur could benefit the Smiths and the community. He acknowledges the significance of the land to the Smith family and expresses regret that their initial offers were not satisfactory. However, this gesture does not impress the Smiths, who are determined to keep fighting.
Diane, in particular, is adamant about exhausting all possible options. She declares, "We're going to fight till we can't fight anymore." Her determination is rooted in the words of her grandmother, who always said, "no stone unturned." The Smiths are being represented by The Institute for Justice and hope to appeal the decision with the Georgia Supreme Court.
This situation has caused a rift in the community, as it highlights the ongoing struggles of African American families to hold onto their land and heritage. It is a familiar story in the South, where the legacy of eminent domain has often been used to displace marginalized communities. The Smiths' fight is a symbol of resistance against this unjust practice, and they refuse to let their family's legacy be taken away.
In the face of this adversity, the Smiths remain steadfast and determined. They will continue to fight for their land and their rights, regardless of the challenges that lie ahead. And while Sandersville may claim to have the best interests of the community at heart, the Smiths will not back down until they are satisfied that their land and their family's heritage are truly being considered.
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