How long does it take to walk the Trustees' Garden area?

A self-guided walk typically takes between 90 and 120 minutes. The distance is approximately 1.5 miles, allowing for plenty of time to read historical markers and enjoy the river views.

Is the Pirates' House Savannah worth visiting?

Yes, it is one of the most historically significant buildings in the South. Established in 1753, it served as an inn for sailors and is famously linked to 'Treasure Island,' making it a must-see for fans of maritime lore.

Where are the Washington Guns located in Savannah?

The Washington Guns are located on the bluff at the intersection of East Bay Street and East Broad Street. They are two bronze cannons captured at Yorktown and gifted to the city by George Washington.

Can I see the Savannah River from this walking route?

Yes, the route follows the riverfront bluff. You will have excellent views of the Savannah River from the Washington Guns, Emmet Park, and the Old Harbor Light.

What was the Trustees' Garden in Savannah?

Trustees' Garden was the first public experimental garden in America, founded in 1733. It was used to test crops like mulberry trees for silk production and was a cornerstone of the early Georgia colony's economy.

Is this Savannah walking route accessible for strollers?

Generally, yes. Most of the route follows paved park paths and city sidewalks. Be aware that Savannah's historic district often features uneven brickwork, so a sturdy stroller is recommended.

What is the Old Harbor Light?

The Old Harbor Light is a historic cast-iron beacon built in 1858. It stands in Emmet Park and was originally used to guide ships through the dangerous 'Fig Island Channel' into the Savannah harbor.

Best time to explore the Eastern Wharf area?

Morning is the best time to explore this area to avoid the humidity and see the sunrise over the river. Late afternoon is also pleasant as the shadows grow long over the historic brickwork.

Colonial Roots & Revolutionary Spirits | Self-Guided Walking Tour

About This Guided Walking Tour

Step away from the typical tourist paths and discover the rugged, foundational edge of Georgia's oldest city. This self-guided walk through Savannah’s Eastern Wharf and Trustees' Garden area invites you to explore the sites where colonial dreams were planted and Revolutionary battles were won. While many visitors stick to the famous central squares, this neighborhood stroll reveals the gritty maritime history and strategic military importance that shaped Savannah’s destiny. You will begin at the bluff overlooking the Savannah River, where artifacts of early American history stand as silent sentinels over the water. As you navigate this walking route, you will encounter the legendary Pirates' House, a site steeped in seafaring lore and literary inspiration. The journey continues through the grounds of the first public experimental garden in America, a place where early settlers attempted to cultivate everything from silk to medicinal herbs. This is a story of survival, innovation, and defense. You will see how the city protected itself from naval threats and how it celebrated its independence from the British crown. This audio walk is perfect for those who want to experience a walking tour Savannah style—independently and at their own pace. Whether you are a history buff interested in the specific mechanics of 18th-century warfare or a traveler looking for the hidden gems of the Georgia coast, this route offers a deep dive into the 'First City.' By the time you reach the final fortifications, you will have a profound understanding of how Savannah evolved from a tiny colonial outpost into a vital Southern port. Explore the legacy of the Trustees, the bravery of Revolutionary soldiers, and the enduring charm of the riverfront on this immersive self-guided adventure.

Tour Highlights & Things to See

The bronze Washington Guns gifted by the first President
The legendary Pirates' House, a 1753 tavern with secret tunnels
The Old Harbor Light, a unique 19th-century maritime beacon
Trustees' Garden, the first experimental garden in North America
The historic fortifications of Fort Wayne overlooking the river
The Celtic Cross and military memorials of Emmet Park

Route Map

Numbers indicate the order of stops on the tour.

Tour Stops & Points of Interest (6)

1

Washington Guns

Begin your journey at the intersection of East Bay Street and East Broad Street. Here, mounted on the bluff, you'll find two bronze cannons known as the Washington Guns. These aren't just any artillery pieces; they were captured from the British at the Battle of Yorktown and later gifted to the Chatham Artillery by George Washington himself during his 1791 visit to Savannah. Take a moment to examine the intricate engravings on the barrels. These guns represent the birth of a nation and Savannah's vital role in the American Revolution. Standing here, you can look out over the Savannah River, just as the early defenders of this city did centuries ago.

2

Emmet Park

Follow the bluff eastward into Emmet Park. This long, narrow stretch of green was once known as 'The Strand' and served as a bustling center for maritime activity. In the early 20th century, it was renamed for Robert Emmet, an Irish nationalist, reflecting the deep roots of the Irish community in Savannah. As you walk through the park, you will encounter the impressive Celtic Cross, carved from Irish limestone. This park serves as a tribute to the city's diverse heritage, featuring memorials for Vietnam veterans and German-American settlers. It’s a peaceful place to reflect on the many layers of people who have called Savannah home.

3

Old Harbor Light

Near the eastern end of Emmet Park stands the Old Harbor Light. Erected in 1858, this cast-iron beacon was a critical navigational aid for ships entering the Savannah River. In the mid-19th century, the river was treacherous, filled with shifting sandbars and debris from scuttled British ships from the Revolution. The light signaled the location of 'The Fig Island Channel.' Though it was darkened during the Civil War to hinder Union ships and nearly fell into ruin, it was restored in the 20th century. It remains one of the few surviving examples of its kind, a lonely sentinel from Savannah's golden age of sail.

4

The Pirates' House

Turn south away from the river to find one of the most famous structures in Georgia: The Pirates' House. Established in 1753, the Herb House—the smaller building attached to the main structure—is considered the oldest standing building in the state. Originally an inn for sailors, it became a notorious haunt for pirates and privateers. Legend has it that Robert Louis Stevenson was inspired by the tales he heard here while writing 'Treasure Island'; in fact, the book mentions Savannah specifically. Beneath your feet, secret tunnels once led from the cellar to the river, allegedly used to 'shanghai' unsuspecting drinkers into forced service on departing ships.

5

Trustees' Garden

Just a short walk from the Pirates' House lies the site of the Trustees' Garden. In 1733, General James Oglethorpe established this ten-acre plot as the first public experimental garden in America. Based on the Chelsea Physic Garden in London, it was designed to test which crops would thrive in the Georgia climate. The Trustees hoped for silk, wine, and spices, leading to the planting of mulberry trees and Mediterranean vines. While the silk industry never took off, the garden successfully introduced peach trees and upland cotton to the region, forever changing the agricultural landscape of the American South.

6

Fort Wayne

Conclude your walk at the site of Fort Wayne, located on the northeastern edge of the historic district. This site has been fortified since the city's founding. During the Revolutionary War, it was a primary battery defending the city from British naval attacks. It was later rebuilt and named for 'Mad' Anthony Wayne, a hero of the Revolution. During the Civil War, the site was used as a gasworks, and you can still see the massive brick retaining walls that supported the iron tanks. Today, it offers a commanding view of the river and the modern Eastern Wharf development, bridging the gap between Savannah's military past and its future.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The Colonial Roots & Revolutionary Spirits route is ideal for history enthusiasts. It covers 18th-century military history, the city's founding at Trustees' Garden, and maritime legends at the Pirates' House, offering a deeper look than standard square-hopping routes.