Companions' Tour

Historic Savannah Experience

Tuesday, March 13 09:00 – 15:30

Pre-registration mandatory, space limited, adults only

You and the other attendee companions will enjoy an open-area trolley through the largest continuous historic district in the United States.  Founded in 1733, Savannah offers a blend of rich history, unique charm and stunning beauty, not to forget the city’s quirky side. Our tour offers a look into the lives of some of the city’s wealthy cotton merchants. Two houses will be visited before lunch and one after lunch. 

Green-Meldrim House

The Green-Meldrim House is an exceptional example of Neo-Gothic Revival architecture. The house was built for Charles Green and designed by the famous architect, John Norris. The house may be best known as the headquarters to General Sherman's troops while in Savannah during the Civil War.  It was from here that Sherman sent his famous telegram to President Lincoln in December 1864 giving him Savannah with its guns, ammunition and 25,000 bales of cotton as a Christmas present.

Owens-Thomas House

Designed by William Jay, the Owens-Thomas House is one of the finest examples of English Regency architecture in the US. The home was built 1816 - 1819 for cotton merchant Richard Richardson and his wife Francis Bolton who soon lost it in the financial depression of 1820. In 1830 the property was acquired by George Welchman Owens, congressman, lawyer, and one-time mayor of Savannah. It remained in the Owens family until 1951, when Margaret Thomas, Owens' granddaughter, bequeathed it to the Telfair Academy of Arts and Sciences.

Andrew Low House

Take a step back in time as you experience this 1800’s southern mansion. The classically designed Andrew Low House sits on the southwest trust lot on Lafayette Square.  In 1847 the wealthy cotton factor Andrew Low chose John Norris to design a house on the lot for his young family.  Norris was an architect to whom the city's leading citizens turned for the design of their residences and business establishments.

Lunch at the Renowned Olde Pink House

Lunch will be served at a renowned restaurant, the Olde Pink House, located in a stately Georgian mansion facing Reynolds Square. Built on land granted by the crown of England, James Habersham Jr., a wealthy plantation owner, lived in this mansion 1771 - 1800. Many secret meetings, which helped to secure the independence of the 13 colonies from England, were held in this home.