Questions answered by Lamar Paris, County Commissioner
First I want to wish everyone a Very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. While this has been a really tough year economically for many in Union County, we are all looking forward to a more prosperous New Year. Also, a special thanks to those of you who read this column and those who respond so positively about this method utilized to keep you informed about what is going on in our wonderful county.
Q. We read in the paper about the Model Railroad Display that Mr. Charles Griffin has on Town Creek School Rd. Have you seen it and is it really worth the visit?
A. If you have not seen the O Gauge train display that Mr. Griffin has, you and your family and friends have really missed a unique experience. During the Christmas season when you have family and friends visiting, I would urge you to take them to see the trains. It is an absolutely amazing sight that will thrill all ages from the youngest to the oldest.
People come from all over the United States to see this model train display and for you to not visit it right here in your own county is a real mistake. From Blairsville, go South on US 129(Gainesville Hwy) approximately 2.8 miles and turn left on Town Creek School Road, go 3.6 miles and look for the small sign on your right. If you get to Alexander’s Store, you have gone too far.
Q. The article in the NGN about Mr. Griffin and his model railroad display states that he donates to several local charities with the admission fees. How does he do this?
A. Normally, if a group is interested, that group is asked to assist with the visitors in taking up money, looking after the parking and assisting visitors. For this, Mr. Griffin gives 100% of the entry fee to the organization. I do not know how many have taken advantage of this over the past few years, but he has literally donated tens of thousands of dollars to different charities. He is just thrilled to have visitors enjoy his life’s passion. Union County is very fortunate to have Mr. Griffin as one of our own.
Q. I recently visited the old Union County Historical Courthouse and Museum and was fascinated by what I saw. Not only is the county fortunate that so many people took such an interest in restoring this beautiful facility, but the exhibits inside are incredible. I have talked to many people that have never been inside. Why?
A. That is a very good question. Everyone that visits the old courthouse is thrilled with what they see. Unfortunately, most never go inside to see it. Many come to the square to see the old cars, or to Halloween, or to Christmas events and to many parades, but few actually go inside to see what is there. The exhibits are fascinating and interesting. Many people who have lived here all their lives would be delighted to see all the local history. Again, if you have family or friends home for Christmas, what a great place to take them to visit.
Most locals have our own memories about the historic courthouse growing up in Blairsville, but I always remembered Jay Lance as the Clerk of Court. He was always very friendly and as a kid, it was the first and only place in Blairsville you could go to get a copy of a document made. No one in the entire county had copy machines except in his office. The best I remember, copies cost $ 1.00 each and you made sure you really needed a copy before paying for one.
Between visiting the courthouse and Mr. Griffin’s railroad, you will have plenty of good entertainment despite the weather.
Misty Mountain Model Railroad hours:
Every day from December 21 to January 2 with the exception of Christmas Day and Sundays. There is only one tour per day which begins at 2 p.m. sharp.
Courthouse Museum hours:
Monday – Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm with the exception of Christmas Day.
Please enjoy the Christmas Holidays and drive with care!! Thank you for helping make Union County one of the best places in the world to live.