Written by Kim
We enjoy visiting these southern cities rich in history from the original settlement of the US. Savannah is not a large city – only 2 1/2 miles square. Savannah is comprised of 24 squares and 3 parks. The 24 squares where planned by Oglethorpe the original colonist largely for military purposes. First a little breakfast to get us going at Treylor Park, a unique diner on East Bay Street
Originally we had planned a free walking tour since we like those but our guide didn’t show up as we waited at Johnson Square. We opted for the trolley tour instead
We enjoy listening to the stories of various conductors on trolley tours. They typically share facts of the city with some interesting anecdotes. Savannah tour didn’t disappoint.
The tour was 90 minutes but we hoped off to explore or grab a drink a few times.
We learned some interesting facts about home. Iron fences signified wealth. The more iron you had the wealthier you were. The Armstrong home’s fence was meant to be a replica of Buckingham Palace. The dolphin downspouts were supposed to bring good luck. A red front door meant your mortgage was paid off
Franklin Square, named for Ben, has a monument celebrating the 500 Haitians who came to fight in the American Revolution in Savannah. Down by the river there is a statue of a young woman who stood at the mouth of river where ships entered waving an apron for 44 years awaiting the return of her husband. He never returned
Savannah is home to the Oldest African Baptist church as well as many other churches and one of the oldest temples in America. During slavery, slaves were not allowed to read or write but were allowed to go to church. Several slaves worked at night after a full days work using candlelight to build the African Baptist church. It took years to build. The underground railway was under the church. The Wesley Methodist church took many years to build also because building was paused for several years when all of the carpenters died simultaneously from yellow fever.
Savannah’s earlier nickname was Forest City because of all the beautiful live oak trees. Many of the trees have Spanish moss on them. Many ask if the Spanish miss hurts the trees but it is thought that it acts as an air purifier and actually helps the trees.
We decided to walk back to our hotel rather than continue on the trolly so we could get a better view of one of the most beautiful streets, Jones Street. We were lucky to get a glimpse of a horse drawn carriage as we approached the Catholic Church.
Our dinner was at The Olde Pink House. I made reservations several weeks ago because it’s very difficult to get a reservation. Dinner was fantastic but we hoped to have a nightcap in the wine cellar but there were no seats and you’re not allowed to stand behind anyone at the bar.
We went down to Vic’s on the River for a nightcap. We had eaten there last time we were in Savannah and really liked it so stopped back in for a drink.
Until next time Savannah. It’s only 4 hours away and on our way to Stephen and other places in Florida so I’m sure we’ll be back. Not sure what our next trip will be before our big trip to Europe in the fall. We are looking forward to bouncing around Europe by train starting in Poland and traveling through Prague, Vienna, Munich, Heidelberg, Belgium, Paris and Lisbon. Hope you catch us then.
