Savannah 1733 to 2000: Photographs from the Collection of the Georgia Historical Society

Images of America: Georgia

by Susan E. Dick, Mandi D. Johnson

Covering just less than two-and-a-half square miles, Savannah's Historic District is a steadfast remnant of the Old South-even in times marked by fast-paced technology and bustling growth. The city air is still sweetened by the scent of tea olives and jasmine, her streets are still lined with the rich palettes of azaleas and camellias, and her people are generous and welcoming. Savannah has enchanted residents and visitors alike for more than two-and-a-half centuries with a rich architectural heritage and a remarkable natural beauty. Founded on February 12, 1733, by Gen. James E. Oglethorpe, Savannah has played an active role on the American stage, in times of war and hardship, as well as in times of peace and prosperity. The city's location at the mouth of the Savannah River created one of the largest seaports on the east coast, and her history is as colorful and varied as the numerous industries that made their way to her banks. Within these pages readers will visit Savannah's signature squares and parks, including Forsyth Park and Colonial Park Cemetery, as well as buildings long since vanished from the city's landscape, such as the old DeSoto Hotel and the City Market. Also showcased are some of Savannah's private homes and public buildings, such as the Telfair Museum of Art, the Chatham County Courthouses, and Christ Church, and such memorable events as the fire of 1889.

Genres: History

128 pages, Paperback

First published June 20, 2001

Reviews

[Timons Esaias · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Images of America series is great for period research for writers, and also for keepsakes of tourism. We spent a wonderful week in Savannah a while back, and I snagged this volume (and another on the Bonaventure Cemetery). This collection of photographs comes from the Georgia Historical Society, so you know they didn't lack for material.

It is made clear at the beginning that though the title is Savannah, it specifically refers to the Historic District, and not the suburbs or Victorian districts. I expect there are volumes that deal with those interesting parts of the city, but there's more than enough to cover as it is. I was surprised to discover that some of my favorite buildings aren't pictured, but then I reminded myself how many choices they'd have had to make. Savannah is just a lovely city.

I particularly like the choice to use period photos of buildings over current photos, almost all of the time. Seeing horses and buggies, or Model Ts, or big DeSotos, gives you more to think about than you'd get with recent pictures, even if the reproduction of newer pictures might be better.

I found a few weaknesses, but relatively minor ones. Giving us a map of the fire of 1820 which started in Franklin Square, but not including Franklin Square, is problematical. There's also the problem of tree-filled squares, which don't look their best in black-and-white photos. If you've been there, you realize how lush and beautiful they are; but if you haven't been there it looks as though you "can't see anything." Hard to get the scale, too.

Quibbles. Going through this brought many fond memories back to mind. Go to Savannah. Go.

[April Helms · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fascinating collection of photos and images of historic Savannah, a great, quick read for anyone interested in this lovely city.

[Janet Wells · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very informative about the history of the city and has lots of photos of the old houses.

[Shawna · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was an okay book for me. I enjoyed looking at the pictures, but would have liked more of the historical account of the city of Savannah to accompany them. It just didn't hold my sttention as other Savannah books have.