History Timeline of Savannah, Georgia
Historical timeline of the development of Savannah, Georgia from its founding by James Oglethorpe in 1733 to present day. While not a complete timeline of events, we have aimed to capture key dates in Savannah's history including events related to the development of the city and the contributions of those who influenced our city in some unique way.
Settlement of Savannah Founded
James Edward Oglethorpe arrives with colonists from England to establish the Colony of Georgia. He lands on Yamacaraw bluff, near present day City Hall. Savannah becomes the 1st city of Georgia.
Savannah Falls to the British
The British invade Savannah during the American Revolutionary War, capturing the City in the Winter of 1778.
Great Fire of 1796
A devasting fire destroys over 200 buildings in Savannah, leaving hundreds of families homeless.
Owens-Thomas House Built
The Owens-Thomas House, a prestigious home designed by William Jay, is completed adjacent to Oglethorpe Square. It was later purchased by local attorney and politician George Welshman Owens for $10,000.
Great Fire of 1820
Fire breaks out and burns relentlessly destroying nearly 100 buildings between Abercorn and Jefferson streets and Bay and Broughton Streets. Within this square, there was total destruction.
Juliette Gordon Low is Born
Juliette Gordon Low is born in a 3 story home on Oglethorpe Avenue. She would grow up to found the Girl Scouts of America. Today, her birthplace is a popular tourist attraction in Savannah.
Sherman Captures Savannah
As Sherman's March to the Sea devastates much of Georgia, Savannah decides to surrender in advance of the impending attack, sparing many of the city's historic buildings. After taking the city and setting up his headquarters at the Green-Meldrim House, Sherman writes President Abraham Lincoln to offer the city as a Christmas gift.
Conrad Aiken in Born
Pulitzer Prize winning poet Conrad Aiken is born in Savannah. He would go on to serve as U.S. Poet Laureate during the 1950s.
Johnny Mercer is Born
Singer Johnny Mercer is born in Savannah.
Ellis Square Destroyed
The City of Savannah permits the destruction of Ellis Square so that a multi-story parking garage can be built to serve the needs of City Market.
Savannah's Historic Preservation Movement Born
After the destruction of Ellis Square and with the proposed destruction of the Isaiah Davenport House, Savannah's preservation movement is born.
National Historic Landmark
The Owens-Thomas House is designated a U.S. National Historic Landmark.May 11, 1976
The Olympics Come to Savannah
Savannah hosts the Yachting Events during the 1996 Summer Olympic Games in Atlanta. Today, there is a momument of the Olympic Flame on River Street where the ceremonies took place.
First Women Elected Mayor
Susan Weiner is elected as the First Female Mayor of Savannah, defeating longtime incumbent John Rousakis.
Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil
John Berendt's Novel Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, is released. The book focuses on the trial of Jim Williams and other Savannah residents. It was a multi-year New York Times Best Seller that greatly raised awareness of Savannah and was directly responsible for a dramatic spike in tourism.
First African-American Mayor
Floyd Adams, Jr. becomes the first African-American elected as Mayor of Savannah.
Midnight Movie
The Clint Eastwood adaptation of Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil is released as a feature film starring Kevin Spacey, John Cusack and The Lady Chablis.
Ellis Square Returns
Ellis Square, one of Savannah's original squares, is officially dedicated after removal of the parking garage that sat on its location for more than five decades. It was reimagined with a popular dancing water feature.
Johnny Mercer Statue
Bronze statue of Savannah-born singer/songwriter Johnny Mercer is unveiled in Ellis Square.
Plant River Side Opens
A new mixed use developement, the Plant Riverside District, opens on Savannah's River Street.