Savannah is one of the oldest planned cities in the United States and a place where colonial ambition, revolutionary ideals, and Southern culture intersect. Founded in the early 18th century, the city’s distinctive layout, preserved architecture, and layered history make it a living record of America’s past.
Founding of Savannah (1733)
Savannah was founded in 1733 by James Edward Oglethorpe, an English general and social reformer. Oglethorpe envisioned the city as both a defensive buffer against Spanish Florida and a fresh start for English settlers seeking economic opportunity. Landing at Yamacraw Bluff, Oglethorpe negotiated peacefully with the local Yamacraw Native Americans, led by Chief Tomochichi, establishing one of the more cooperative early colonial relationships.
From the beginning, Savannah was carefully planned. Oglethorpe designed a grid system centered around public squares, emphasizing order, defense, and civic life. This innovative layout—now known as the Oglethorpe Plan—became one of the city’s most enduring features.
Colonial Growth and Revolutionary Era
During the colonial period, Savannah grew as a port city tied to agriculture and trade. Initially, slavery was banned, but it was later legalized, shaping the city’s economic and social structure for generations. By the time of the American Revolution, Savannah had become strategically important due to its port and location.
In 1778, British forces captured Savannah, making it a key stronghold during the war. The following year, American and French troops attempted to reclaim the city in the Siege of Savannah (1779)—one of the bloodiest battles of the Revolution. The effort failed, and Savannah remained under British control until the end of the war in 1782.
Antebellum Savannah and the Civil War
In the 19th century, Savannah prospered as a major cotton-exporting port. Wealth generated from trade and agriculture funded the construction of elegant homes, churches, and public buildings that still define the city’s historic districts.
During the Civil War, Savannah avoided the widespread destruction experienced by many Southern cities. In December 1864, Union General William T. Sherman captured Savannah after his March to the Sea and famously presented the city to President Abraham Lincoln as a “Christmas gift.” Because of this relatively peaceful transfer, much of Savannah’s historic architecture survived intact.
Preservation and Modern Legacy
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Savannah faced decline as economic priorities shifted. However, strong local preservation efforts helped protect its historic core. The city became a national leader in historic preservation, ensuring that its squares, buildings, and neighborhoods remained largely unchanged.
Today, Savannah is celebrated for its ability to balance history with modern life, offering visitors an immersive experience in a city shaped by centuries of cultural exchange, conflict, and resilience.
Visiting Today: What to Expect
Visiting Savannah today feels like stepping into history while enjoying the warmth and charm of a living Southern city.
Historic District and Squares
Savannah’s Historic District features 22 preserved public squares, each with its own character, monuments, and stories. Shaded by oak trees draped in Spanish moss, the squares invite visitors to slow down and explore at a relaxed pace.
Walking Tours and Historic Sites
Savannah is ideal for walking. Guided tours—ranging from history and architecture to African American heritage—offer deep insight into the city’s past. Key sites include:
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Forsyth Park
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Owens-Thomas House
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Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace
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Colonial Park Cemetery
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River Street and the waterfront
Museums, Cemeteries, and Architecture
Historic homes operate as museums, showcasing life across different eras. Savannah’s cemeteries, particularly Colonial Park Cemetery, provide a quiet reflection on the city’s colonial and antebellum history. Churches, mansions, and public buildings reveal a mix of Georgian, Federal, Greek Revival, and Victorian styles.
Why Savannah Matters
Savannah’s story is one of thoughtful planning, cultural complexity, and preservation. Unlike many historic cities, Savannah allows visitors to experience history not just through monuments, but through its streets, neighborhoods, and daily life. It is a city where the past remains visible, tangible, and deeply woven into the present.