Guided Savannah Civil War History Walking Tour

Savannah’s strategic location on the Georgia coast made it a crucial Confederate stronghold during the Civil War. The Savannah Civil War History Walking Tour invites visitors to uncover the city’s pivotal role, from its fortified military installations to its miraculous escape from General Sherman’s destructive March to the Sea. Led by knowledgeable guides, this immersive experience explores Savannah’s well-preserved antebellum architecture, offering a captivating glimpse into the past. As you stroll through the city’s historic district, prepare to be transported back in time and gain a deeper understanding of Savannah’s enduring legacy as a testament to the complexities of the American Civil War.

Key Points

• Explore Savannah’s pivotal role as a strategic Confederate port city during the Civil War, including its importance as a hub for blockade runners.
• Visit historic sites like Fort Pulaski, a Confederate stronghold, and learn about Savannah’s military installations and their significance.
• Discover General Sherman’s headquarters in Savannah and understand his decision to spare the city from destruction during the ‘March to the Sea’.
• Enjoy a guided tour through Savannah’s well-preserved antebellum district, featuring grand mansions, verdant squares, and the Mercer-Williams House.
• Benefit from knowledgeable guides who provide insightful commentary on Savannah’s Civil War history and its impact on the city.

Savannah’s Civil War Significance

Savannah played a significant role in the American Civil War, owing to its strategic location on the Georgia coast and its role as a major Confederate port city.

The city’s capture was a key objective for the Union forces during the conflict. Savannah’s importance grew as it became a hub for blockade runners bringing supplies to the Confederacy from overseas.

The city was also home to several important military installations, including Fort Pulaski, which guarded the mouth of the Savannah River. Crucially, Savannah was spared from destruction during General Sherman’s infamous ‘March to the Sea,’ which devastated much of Georgia. This helped the city recover more quickly in the war’s aftermath.

Tour Highlights and Inclusions

This walking tour highlights Savannah’s pivotal role in the American Civil War, offering visitors an immersive exploration of the city’s storied past.

Travelers will discover the historic sites that shaped Savannah’s involvement in the conflict, from the Confederate stronghold of Fort Pulaski to the headquarters of General William T. Sherman, who famously spared the city during his devastating ‘March to the Sea.’

The fully narrated tour also guides visitors through Savannah’s antebellum district, showcasing its well-preserved colonial architecture and cobbled streets.

With knowledgeable guides providing insightful commentary throughout, this tour provides an engaging and comprehensive look at Savannah’s critical contributions to the Civil War.

Meeting and Booking Details

Visitors can meet the tour at Reynolds Square, located at 32 Abercorn Street in Savannah, Georgia, with the tour culminating at Oglethorpe Square, 127 Abercorn Street. Multiple departure times are offered throughout the day, and you will receive confirmation at the time of booking. The walking tour is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers.

The tour includes:

• Professional guide to provide commentary on Savannah’s Civil War history
• All taxes, fees, and handling charges
• Accessibility for wheelchair and stroller users
• Proximity to public transportation
• Wheelchair accessible transportation

This fully narrated tour is a history buff’s dream, exploring Savannah’s involvement in the Civil War through its cobbled streets, historic squares, and colonial architecture.

Navigating the Walking Tour

With the meeting point at Reynolds Square and the tour culminating at Oglethorpe Square, participants can look forward to an engaging exploration of Savannah’s rich Civil War history along the city’s cobbled streets and historic landmarks.

The fully narrated walking tour, led by knowledgeable guides, offers in-depth commentary on the key sites and events that shaped Savannah’s role during the conflict. Travelers will visit Sherman’s former headquarters, learn about the city’s strategic importance, and discover how it was spared from destruction on the famous March to the Sea.

Throughout the tour, the guide will bring Savannah’s Civil War past to life, providing a comprehensive and captivating look at this pivotal chapter in American history.

Savannah’s Historic Antebellum District

Savannah’s historic Antebellum district enchants visitors with its well-preserved architecture, lush gardens, and captivating tales from the pre-Civil War era.

As the tour winds through this picturesque neighborhood, guests are transported back in time, marveling at:

• Sprawling mansions adorned with intricate ironwork and towering columns
• Verdant squares lined with live oak trees draped in Spanish moss
• Quaint cobblestone streets and historic homes that once belonged to prominent families
• The Mercer-Williams House, featured in the novel ‘Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil’

Charming cafes and boutiques are nestled within this well-preserved historic district.

The guide’s insightful commentary brings this bygone era to life, offering a glimpse into Savannah’s storied past.

Sherman’s Headquarters in Savannah

During the walking tour, guests explore the site of General William Tecumseh Sherman’s headquarters in Savannah, a crucial location in the city’s Civil War history.

From this strategic position, Sherman directed the final campaign of his ‘March to the Sea,’ which spared Savannah from the widespread destruction seen in other parts of the South.

The guide recounts how Sherman’s forces occupied the building, using it as a command center to coordinate the capture of the city and its surrender to Union forces in December 1864.

Visitors learn how Savannah’s location on the Savannah River and its port facilities made it an important strategic target, and how Sherman’s decision to spare the city shaped the course of the war in the region.

Testimonials and Reviews

Visitors consistently rave about the Savannah Civil War History Walking Tour, with 346 reviews earning it a 5.0 rating and a Badge of Excellence. Travelers are enthralled by the guide’s engaging commentary and deep knowledge of Savannah’s pivotal role in the Civil War.

Key highlights include:

• Exploring sites where General Sherman headquartered during his famous ‘March to the Sea’
• Learning how Savannah miraculously escaped Sherman’s destructive path through Georgia

Strolling through the city’s picturesque historic district, marveling at its antebellum architecture, visitors gain a newfound appreciation for Savannah’s steadfast resolve and resilience during the war.

Leaving with a richer understanding of this chapter in American history.

Accessibility and Transportation

The tour’s accessibility features ensure it caters to a wide range of travelers, with its wheelchair and stroller accessibility, as well as allowance for service animals.

Transportation to the tour’s meeting point is also convenient, situated near public transit options. Visitors can easily reach the starting point at Reynolds Square, located just a short distance from the end point at Oglethorpe Square.

The tour’s wheelchair-accessible transportation further enhances its inclusivity, making it accessible to those with mobility challenges.

Whether you’re exploring Savannah’s Civil War history on your own or with family, this guided walking tour provides an engaging and accessible experience for all.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos During the Tour?

Yes, you can take photos during the tour. The tour is designed to allow participants to capture the historic sites and scenery along the way. Just be mindful of the guide’s instructions and other guests to avoid disrupting the experience.

Are There Any Restroom Breaks During the Tour?

The tour features planned restroom breaks during the walking tour, allowing participants to use facilities at various points along the route. Tour guides are attentive to the needs of the group and accommodate breaks as necessary.

How Long Is the Total Walking Distance?

The total walking distance on the tour is approximately 1.5 miles. The tour guide ensures there are plenty of opportunities for breaks along the way, and the pace is leisurely to accommodate guests of all fitness levels.

Can I Leave the Tour Group at Any Time?

Yes, participants can leave the tour group at any time during the walking tour. The tour is self-guided, allowing visitors the flexibility to explore Savannah’s Civil War history at their own pace and convenience.

Is There an Option to Have a Private Tour?

Yes, private tours are available for this walking tour. Customers can arrange a private tour with the tour provider to have a more personalized experience and avoid larger group sizes. Private tours typically have a higher cost but offer greater flexibility.

Recap

The Savannah Civil War History Walking Tour offers a captivating exploration of the city’s pivotal role during the conflict.

Visitors can explore Savannah’s strategic importance, discover historic sites, and enjoy the well-preserved antebellum district.

With guided visits and a wealth of information, this tour provides an engaging and insightful journey through Savannah’s remarkable Civil War history.