Colony of Georgia Historical Timeline
The historical timeline of events in the creation of the Colony of Georgia during the 18th Century
King George II Charter
In the summer of 1732, King George II signs a Charter to establish the a new colony. It will become the last of the 13 colonies. Unlike the others, both slavery and importing alcohol were forbidden.
Colonists Begin Boarding The Anne
With the sailing date less than 2 weeks away, colonists begin boarding The Anne in preperation of starting a new life across the Atlantic Ocean.
Colonists Depart England
At 8am, The Anne departes Gravesend, England for the two month journey to America with General James Oglethorpe and the colonists.
Oglethorpe's Birthday
Colonists are given extra rations as the ship celebrates the birthday of James Oglethorpe.
Colonists Arrive at Charles Town
The Anne enters Charles Town harbor on January 13th. General Oglethrope disembarks to meet with Governor Robert Johnson of South Carolina. Colonists are not allowed to leave the ship.
Colonists Arrive at Port Royal
Having sailed south from Charles Town, the colonists arrive at Port Royal, South Carolina on January 20th.
Tomochichi Travels to England
Tomochichi, along with his wife and 7 other members of the tribe, travel with General Oglethorpe to England and meets King George II. During their visit, the Indian Chief presents the King with a stick adorned with eagle feathers as a sign of friendship and peace.
Return to Savannah
Tomochichi departs England for the return voyage to Georgia. Also on board the ship were fifty-seven Salzburgers
Oglethorpe Returns
Oglethorpe returns to Georgia to establish new settlements in the Colony of Georgia. On this trip, he would establish new settlements at Frederica on St. Simon's Island and Augusta. Both locations were setup with both colonists and troops.
John Wesley Arrives
John Wesley, accompanied by his brother Charles, arrive in Savannah to begin Christian missinoary outreach to the local Indians.
George Whitfield Arrives in Savannah
Sent as a replacement for John Wesley, the Rev. George Whitfield arrives in Savannah and is warmly welcomed by the colonists.
The Spanish Invade Georgia
Seeking to gain British colonial lands, Spain, from their colony of Florida to the south, invades Georgia.
Battle of the Bloody Marsh
The pivotal battle of the War of Jenkin's Ear in which the English were victorious.
Royal Colony
The Trustee Period Ends and Georgia becomes a Royal Colony.
1st Royal Governor
Having been appointed the First Royal Governor of Georgia, John Reynolds arrives in Savannah. Today, our city remembers him as the namesake of Reynolds Square.
2nd Royal Governor
Henry Ellis arrives in Savannah and takes the control as the 2nd Royal Governor of the Colony of Georgia. Historians sometimes refer to Ellis as Georgia's 2nd founder. Ellis Square is named in honor of him.
3rd Royal Governor
James Wright is appointed the 3rd Royal Governor of Georgia to replace Henry Ellis, who was suffering from poor health. Wright Square in Savannah is named in his honor.
British Capture Savannah
Lieutenant Colonel Archibald Campbell leads British forces in the Capture of Savannah. Historians now refer to this as the 1st Battle of Savannah.
Siege of Savannah
American forces began a month-long Siege to recapute Savannah, however British forces are able to successfully hold the city. During this campaign, Polish Count Casimir Pulaski is mortally wounded.
Georgia Becomes the 4th State
Georgia is admitted to the Union as the 4th state after its legistlature ratifies the U.S. Constitution.
