Warren Square
Warren Square is a picturesque park that is only steps away from Savannah's famous Broughton Street, where shops and restaurants abound, and River Street, which is one of the finest preserved waterfronts in the United States today! It is one of Savannah’s historic squares laid out throughout the city. It’s past is filled with history that is commemorated to this day, and to this day is a frequently trafficked area by tourists and residents alike.
Established in 1791, Warren Square was named after General Joseph Warren. Warren was a hero who served through the Revolutionary War and is accredited with being a prominent figure in battle. He was born in the Province of Massachusetts, and practiced medicine in Boston after attending Harvard College. During his medical career, he became involved in politics. He was commissioned as a Major General in 1775, and just several days later, he volunteered to join in the toughest ongoing fight where he died moments prior to the Battle of Bunker Hill. His legacy lives on through the multiple monuments built in his name, including Warren Square in Savannah, and three statues located in his hometown of Boston.
Warren Square is located between East Bryan Street and East Congress Street, and is surrounded by residential blocks, shops, and restaurants. Out of the 22 historic squares in the city, this is one of the most quaint locations given its surrounding residential blocks, and with its proximity to the Savannah River, remains a favorite among locals.
When it was established, Warren Square was a hub for visiting seafarers given its geographic location. While it doesn’t boast a statue or fountain, like many of the other squares, it has the local charm of Savannah in every square foot. Today, the square is primarily used for recreation purposes, and residents can be seen taking casual strolls through its historic walkways.
Warren Square is surrounded by historic homes on its north and east sides, which were all constructed between the late 1700’s and the early 1800’s. These sides continue to offer a glimpse of the square’s early history, and the original intent of the area when the city was being laid out. The architectural details of the era have been preserved and add on to the city’s rich architectural history. Traveling by horse was a common practice when the square was laid out, and the expansive brick walkways seen to this day are an example of how the square was developed to fit the needs of the city. While that is no longer a common practice, the original design intent has been honored and maintained through the years.
While Warren Square is on the smaller side compared to the other squares, it offers a large lush lawn perfect for summer picnics, and provides shade from some of the oldest live oak trees in the city. What visitors enjoy most from this park is its peaceful vibes, and its proximity to many other local attractions. Just three blocks to the west is Reynolds Square, and to three blocks to the east is Washington Square. The city’s 22 squares, including this one, create one of the most walkable cities in the country, so next time you’re in town be sure to make your way down to this unique pocket of history.
