Historical Facts about Savannah GA
Savannah, Georgia is a city with a rich and colorful history that stretches back over 280 years. As one of the oldest cities in the United States, Savannah has played an important role in the development of the country. Here are 20 historical facts about historic Savannah that are sure to pique your interest.
1. Savannah was founded in 1733 by General James Oglethorpe. It was the first city in the British colony of Georgia.
2. The city was built on a grid system that consisted of 24 squares, with each square serving as a public park.
3. Savannah was named after the Savannah River, which runs through the city and was named by the Native American tribe that originally inhabited the area.
4. The city was an important port during the American Revolution and the Civil War.
5. Savannah was spared from destruction during the Civil War when General William Tecumseh Sherman spared the city on his March to the Sea.
6. The city’s historic district is the largest National Historic Landmark District in the United States.
7. The Mercer-Williams House, which was featured in the book and movie “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil,” is located in Savannah.
8. The first synagogue in Georgia, Mickve Israel, was established in Savannah in 1733.
9. The city’s Telfair Museum of Art is the oldest public art museum in the South.
10. Savannah was the birthplace of Girl Scouts founder Juliette Gordon Low.
11. The Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) is a major contributor to the city’s arts and culture scene.
12. The city is home to the second-oldest continuously operating theater in the United States, the Savannah Theatre.
13. The Bonaventure Cemetery, which is located in Savannah, is one of the most beautiful and historic cemeteries in the country.
14. The famous songwriter Johnny Mercer was born and raised in Savannah.
15. The Pirates’ House, a restaurant located in Savannah’s historic district, was once a meeting place for pirates.
16. The city’s Forsyth Park Fountain was modeled after a fountain in Paris, France.
17. Savannah is known for its Spanish moss, which drapes from the branches of the city’s live oak trees.
18. The city was once home to the Central of Georgia Railway, which played an important role in the transportation of goods during the 19th century.
19. The birthplace of Juliette Gordon Low is now a museum dedicated to the Girl Scouts.
20. Savannah’s historic district is home to many beautiful and historic homes and buildings, including the Owens-Thomas House, which was designed by architect William Jay in the early 19th century.
