Savannah, GA is well known for its historic green squares around which many grand residences were built. The city is further enhanced by three beautiful public parks that grace the waterfront and historic district of this noteworthy city.
Forsyth Park in Savannah
Just steps away from the Olde Savannah Inn on the corner of Bull and Gaston Streets, Forsyth Park is the largest and most spectacular of Savannah’s elegant parks. It was created in the 1840s after land was donated for the purpose of public enjoyment by local resident, William Hodgson. The park was expanded in 1851 and renamed after the governor of Georgia, John Forsyth.
Today, Forsyth Park is one of the most delightful Savannah GA attractions to stroll around in, covering 30 acres including a large sports field. Joggers and walkers make good use of the one mile perimeter for keeping in shape. Enjoy the confederate memorials which include monuments to the Confederate Soldier, the Marine Corps and the Spanish-American monument. There is also a fragrant sensory garden for the blind and a garden café.
The French inspired cascading fountain is one of Savannah’s highlights. Dating back to 1858, this cast iron fountain was designed to resemble the fountain on the Place de Concorde in Paris. In turn, the Savannah fountain was exactly replicated to stand in Cuzco, Peru.
Morrell Park in Savannah
One of Savannah’s popular landmarks is the larger-than-life bronze statue of the waving girl which can be found in Morrell Park. It is located on the waterfront between River Street and the East Board Ramp. This lovely landmark includes a ship’s lantern and a beautifully collie dog and stands on a black granite base.
The delightful waving girl statue is of Florence Margaret Martus, sister to the local lighthouse keeper. For 44 years she waved a welcome and farewell to all the ships coming and going from the Savannah Harbor. Her act became symbolic of the friendly welcome and southern hospitality that you are sure to encounter on any visit to the southern states.
Another feature to look out for in Morrell Park is the Olympic Flame, which was erected on the site to mark Savannah hosting the 1996 Olympic yachting events.
Emmet Park in Savannah
Located on Bay Street between Abercorn and East Broad, Emmet Park is perhaps the oldest of all Savannah’s parks as it was once an Indian burial ground. The park stands on a bluff with scenic views across the Savannah River.
Irish history abounds in this quiet park which was renamed in 1902 to commemorate the centenary of the death of Irish orator, Robert Emmet. The Factor’s Walk has many fascinating monuments marking an eclectic mix of worthy causes including Savannah’s soldiers who lost their life in the Vietnam War.
This multinational park also has a monument to the German Salzburgers, a Celtic cross, the Chatham Artillery Memorial and the Old Harbor Light. It was erected in 1852 to guide ships around the sunken wrecks in the estuary that were sunk by the British during the American Revolutionary War.
Creative Commons Attribution: Permission is granted to repost this article in its entirety with credit to Luxury Living Savannah and a clickable link back to this page.