Words and Photos by Henrylito D. Tacio
When asked about the cities that come to mind regarding the state of Georgia in the United States, Filipinos would typically mention Atlanta. This is largely due to its role as the host city for the 1996 Summer Olympics. Additionally, it was the former international headquarters for the US cable network CNN.
Conversely, if you inquire about Savannah, they might respond with confusion, asking, “Where is that?” For the uninformed, Savannah is the oldest city in the state and was once the capital of the colonial Province of Georgia, later becoming the first state capital of Georgia.
Perhaps only Filipinos with relatives in Savannah are familiar with the city. In fact, my aunt Adelaida “Aida” Day currently resides there. She previously lived in Ohio, but due to the harsh winter conditions, she chose to relocate to Savannah, where the climate is much more favorable for someone like her.
When I had my recent vacation in the United States, we decided to have a sort of reunion at my aunt’s home. My sister Elena Chase, who lives in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, went with me when I visited my other sister, Marilou Eplite, now living in Deland, Florida.
Elena and I planned to visit our Aunt Aida by riding a bus to her place. But a few days before our trip, my sister Marilou and her husband David, decided to go along. So, we took David’s vehicle and traveled all the way to Savannah.
The travel time was supposed to be only three hours and 36 minutes but since we made several stops, it took us around 5 hours. But that was alright. After all, we were not in a hurry and we were enjoying the scenery.
You may not be familiar with Savannah but if you watch a lot of Hollywood movies, then you probably have seen the city. First and foremost is the award-winning Forrest Gump (1994). Beneath the oaks and magnolias, between the cafés and galleries, Tom Hanks sat in his dirty sneakers and white suit, with a box of chocolates in his lap.
Hanks, who received his second Oscar trophy for Best Actor for his tour de force performance, delivered the most popular line, “Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get.”
In Clint Eastwood’s Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil (1997), several real locations such as Mercer House and Bonaventure Cemetery were prominently featured. The golf-themed drama, The Legend of Bagger Vance (2000), starred Will Smith and Matt Damon, featuring various scenes set in the historic squares and nearby areas of Savannah.
Prior to that, the film Glory (1989) was released. This highly regarded Civil War movie filmed numerous battle and city scenes within the historic downtown area.
Now, if you have seen those movies, you probably recall now how Savannah looks. Established in 1733, the city was shaped from a wilderness by founder James Edward Oglethorpe and a group of English settlers. It got its name from the extensive marshlands and flat grasslands surrounding the river.
“The most beautiful city in North America,” is how Paris’s famed Le Monde describes the city. The Toronto Sunday Sun says of this alluring city: “Savannah wears her past like a fine old cape, draped in Southern graciousness, pockets filled with treasures of a rich, proud history.”
Savannah has repeatedly been recognized as one of “America’s Favorite Cities” by Travel + Leisure. It was ranked first for “Public Parks and Outdoor Access,” and as a destination for romantic getaways. Furthermore, Savannah was designated as America’s second-best city for “Cool Buildings and Architecture,” following only Chicago.
To give you an idea about Savannah, here’s a deft description: “There’s something magical about Savannah. Centuries-old oak trees, typical of tropical climates, line the sidewalks and create a canopy over the streets. The houses or buildings in the historic district neatly adjoin one another; many sit directly on the sidewalk. Some showcase a small potted garden on their front porch, a way to add a splash of color, a touch of individuality and to give the homeowner an excuse to linger on their stoop, water plants and greet those who pass by.”
Indeed, it’s a perfect place as a backdrop for period movies. Since 1915, some 100 movies have been filmed in Savannah. Scenes from The General’s Daughter, The Great Santini, Something to Talk About, The Conspirator, Forces of Nature, The Gift, Without Love, Back Trace, The Poison Rose, Lady and the Tramp, Council of Cads, The Peanut Butter Falcon, Something to Talk About, and Harry Haft were shot here.
When filming could not be moved to France, the producers of the 2019 hit film Ford v. Ferrari shifted production to Hutchinson Island, situated just north of downtown Savannah across the Talmadge Bridge. This island acted as a substitute for the Circuit de la Sarthe in Le Mans, France.
Each year, Savannah draws millions of tourists who appreciate the city’s architecture and historical structures. If you visit the city during summer, don’t expect to find a place where you could park your car.
Among the places people go to include the following: the Telfair Academy of Arts and Sciences (one of the earliest public museums in the South), the First African Baptist Church (one of the oldest African American Baptist congregations in the United States), and the Central of Georgia Railway roundhouse complex (the country’s oldest surviving antebellum rail facility).
Savannah’s downtown area – referred to as the Savannah Historic District – ranks among the largest National Historic Landmark Districts in the United States, a designation granted by the U.S. government in 1966.
Savannah is noted for its historic district, which comprises 24 squares. These squares differ in size and character, ranging from the formal fountain and monuments of the largest, Johnson, to the playgrounds of the smallest, Crawford. Elbert, Ellis, and Liberty Squares are known as the “lost squares,” having been destroyed due to development in the 1950s.
Nevertheless, the majority of visitors frequent West River Street, which serves as both a commercial thoroughfare and a promenade. This street extends along the southern boundary of the Savannah River for a distance of 3.2 kilometers, starting from the junction of North and East Lathrop Avenues in the west and concluding at East Bay Street in the east. The most recognized segment of this street stretches from the Talmadge Memorial Bridge, passing beneath City Hall and Yamacraw Bluff, to its eastern endpoint.
At the historic waterfront, visitors can observe the World War II Monument, an important homage to American veterans who participated in the conflict. The monument, officially titled “A World Apart,” represents the separation between the European and Pacific theaters of the war. It showcases a divided bronze and copper globe, engraved with the names of 527 service members from Chatham County who perished during World War II.
Savannah is celebrated as the “most haunted city” in the United States. Indeed, a travel agency offers a nightly experience called the “ghostly trolley and spirits stroll.” “Embark on a journey into the dark,” it invites.
It should come as no surprise that historical cemeteries are prevalent throughout the area. This is evidenced by the existence of the Department of Cemeteries, which oversees five active cemeteries: Colonial Park (an early burial site dating back to the English colony of Georgia), Laurel Grove North and South (the resting place of many Confederate soldiers and African American slaves), Greenwich, and Bonaventure.
Savannah hosts numerous historic forts. We had the chance to visit Fort Pulaski, situated on Cockspur Island. Finished in 1847, this fort played a crucial role during the Civil War and is recognized for its remarkable engineering and historical importance. The fort’s walls still show the marks of conflict, and guests can wander through its well-maintained interior and vast grounds.
Located merely 20 minutes to the east of downtown Savannah is Tybee Island which Americans described as “possibly the most relaxed destination along the southeastern coast.” This charming beachfront community is often referred to as “Savannah’s Beach.”
This small barrier island features a spacious 8-kilometer beach, complemented by sand dunes adorned with sea oats. The sand primarily consists of fine grains of granite. It is comfortable to walk on and, during low tide, suitable for biking.
Tybee Beach, renowned as the most popular among them, has attracted vacationers and tourists since the late 1800s. The beach is expansive and pristine, with warm, gentle waves.
During our visit, we went to the Tybee Pier and Pavilion which provides extensive access to the Atlantic shoreline and a notable fishing pier. This area is frequently the most bustling on the island, offering convenient beach access, nearby dining options, and regular events.
Like downtown Savannah, Tybee Island has appeared in several movies. In 2017, it was transformed into a major Hollywood set for Baywatch. These movies were also filmed in Tybee Island: The Beach House, Love at the Shore, Gifted, Dirty Grandpa, The Last Song, The Gingerbread Man, Wild America, and Gator.
Now, let’s go back to downtown Savannah once more. The West River Street features antiques, souvenirs, small eateries, as well as two large outdoor plazas. On the historic Savannah River, you will find a restored nineteenth-century cotton warehouse and passageways, where you can also do shopping and bar hopping. Of course, restaurants abound, too.
In summary, Savannah presents an enchanting mix of history, culture, and Southern allure, catering to history enthusiasts, culinary aficionados, and leisurely visitors alike. The city’s picturesque streets, significant historical sites, and lively local culture contribute to its status as a remarkable destination.—###
