The Savannah Historic District is a large urban historic district in the United States that roughly corresponds to the pre-Civil War city limits of Savannah, Georgia. The district was designated a National Historic District in 1966, and is one of the largest urban, community historic districts in the United States.
Each year, the Savannah Historic District attracts millions of visitors who enjoy its 18th and 19th century architecture and green spaces. The neighborhood is home to the birthplace of Juliette Gordon Low (founder of the Girl Scouts of the United States), Telfair Academy of Arts and Sciences (one of the South’s first public museums), First African Baptist Church (the oldest African American Baptist congregation in the United States), St. John the Baptist, Old Harbor Light and Factors Row, a line of former cotton warehouses along the waterfront, some built of ship ballast stones.
Jones Street is Savannah’s prettiest street and is a perfect example of “deep southern charm.” Centuries-old antebellum and colonial style mansions line the street, each with a distinctive style and pastel colors. Flowering courtyards, lush foliage and wrought iron balconies adorn the homes along the street, lined with giant oaks covered in Spanish moss.
Spanning 30 historic acres, Forsyth Park is the geographic, photogenic and cultural heart of Savannah. Sitting on a bench under the oak canopy is the perfect place to relax after a long day of sightseeing.
River Street is a popular tourist spot located along the Savannah River. The views of the river, pier and the beautiful Talmadge Memorial (suspension) Bridge from here are breathtaking, especially at sunrise and sunset.
There are 22 charming plazas scattered throughout Savannah’s historic district. Most have been named in memory of a notable person or historical event, and some have a towering monument or fountain and plaques in the center that tell of the significance of the place.
Other buildings in the neighborhood include the Isaiah Davenport House, the Green-Meldrim House, the Owens-Thomas House, the William Scarbrough House, the Sorrell-Weed House, and the United States Custom House.
