Savannah: African American History Walking Tour W/ Transfer

Savannah’s African American history walking tour provides an unparalleled opportunity to explore the city’s complex past. Visitors will retrace the steps of enslaved individuals, delving into the harrowing stories of the transatlantic slave trade and its lasting impact on the region. From the historic River Street and Factors Walk to the sites of former slave auctions, this immersive experience sheds light on the vibrant West African cultures and the lucrative cotton industry that fueled Savannah’s economy. Prepare to be both enlightened and challenged as this insightful journey unveils the city’s intricate legacy and its ongoing transformation towards reconciliation.

Key Points

• Explore the historic River Street and Factors Walk, which served as a hub for the city’s maritime trade and slave auctions.
• Discover the vibrant West African tribal histories and the lasting cultural influence of the enslaved communities in Savannah.
• Witness the cotton shipping industry that fueled the region’s economy and was built on the backs of slave labor.
• Visit the solemn sites of slave auctions, where families were torn apart and the cruel realities of the domestic slave trade occurred.
• Gain a new perspective on Savannah’s multifaceted history, from the horrors of slavery to the path towards freedom for African Americans.

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Exploring River Street and Factors Walk

The walking tour begins at River Street, where visitors step back in time to explore the historic cobblestone thoroughfare that once served as the center of Savannah’s bustling maritime trade and the site of slave auctions.

As the guide leads the group along the riverfront, they’ll learn about the critical role this area played in the city’s economy and the dark history of the slave trade.

Next, the tour moves to Factors Walk, a series of elevated walkways and bridges that connected the bluff to the river below.

Here, visitors will gain a deeper understanding of the harsh realities faced by those forced into slavery, as the guide recounts the stories of the men, women, and children who were bought and sold on these very streets.

Discovering West African Tribal Histories

As the tour progresses, the guide delves into the rich histories of the West African tribal groups from which many of Savannah’s enslaved population were forcibly taken.

Visitors gain insights into the vibrant cultures, languages, and traditions of these diverse communities, learning how the trauma of the transatlantic slave trade forever altered the lives of those it touched.

The guide recounts the stories of the Yoruba, Igbo, and Senegambian peoples, highlighting their skilled craftsmanship, sophisticated social structures, and deep spiritual beliefs.

Participants are moved by the resilience and perseverance of these individuals, who despite the horrors of enslavement, managed to maintain and pass down elements of their heritage, shaping the cultural landscape of Savannah in profound ways.

Witnessing the Cotton Shipping Industry

Leaving the sites that highlight the African cultural heritage of Savannah, the tour now moves to the waterfront, where participants witness the remnants of the city’s once-thriving cotton shipping industry.

Along River Street and Factors Walk, the guide recounts how Savannah was a major port for exporting cotton grown by slave labor in the surrounding plantations. The group explores the historical buildings and cobblestone streets where cotton brokers and merchants once operated, learning about the lucrative trade that fueled the region’s economy.

As they stroll along the riverfront, participants gain a deeper understanding of the integral role the cotton industry played in Savannah’s development and the complex history that shaped the city.

Visiting the Slave Auction Sites

Next, the tour group ventures to the locations where slave auctions once occurred, allowing participants to envision the harrowing experiences of those who were bought and sold.

The guide leads the group through the historic district, pointing out sites such as Johnson Square, where enslaved Africans were publicly auctioned to the highest bidder, their humanity stripped away in the pursuit of profit.

As the participants walk in the footsteps of the enslaved, the guide recounts the distressing accounts of families being torn apart and the cruel realities of the domestic slave trade that fueled Savannah’s economy.

The group stands in solemn reflection, gaining a deeper understanding of the atrocities that occurred in this once-prosperous port city.

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Taking in Savannah’s Dark Past

The tour then immerses participants in Savannah’s dark past, guiding them through the historic district where the grim realities of the city’s involvement in the slave trade come to light. Visitors board the vehicle at their hotel and are dropped off to begin the guided walk along River Street, Factors Walk, Bay Street, and Johnson Square. Here, they learn about the history of West African tribes and the brutal system of slave labor that fueled Savannah’s economy. A chilling table depicts the sites where cotton was shipped and slaves were auctioned, painting a vivid picture of the city’s troubling legacy.

Site	Historical Significance
River Street	Major hub for cotton and slave trade
Factors Walk	Location of slave auction houses
Bay Street	Site of slave market and cotton warehouses
Johnson Square	Gathering place for public slave auctions

Gaining a New Perspective on the City

The guided walking tour allows visitors to gain a new perspective on Savannah’s complicated history, transitioning from its dark past to its present-day significance.

Through the insightful recounts of the tour guide, guests are taken on a journey that illuminates the African American experience, from the horrors of slavery to the hard-fought path towards freedom.

By exploring historic landmarks, guests can envision the lives and struggles of those who came before, gaining a deeper appreciation for the city’s evolution.

The tour invites participants to reflect on the city’s transformation, fostering a sense of understanding and a renewed perspective on Savannah’s multifaceted identity.

Embarking on an Insightful Journey

Embarking on the guided walking tour, visitors enjoy a captivating journey that unveils the complex and poignant history of Savannah’s African American community. The knowledgeable guide recounts the harrowing tales of slavery, drawing parallels between the city’s past and its present-day landscape.

Explore historic sites where slaves were auctioned and cotton was shipped, gaining a deeper understanding of the region’s dark past.

Learn about the resilience and perseverance of those who fought for freedom, from the era of slavery to the civil rights movement.

Discover the lasting contributions of African Americans to Savannah’s cultural fabric, including the vibrant religious, artistic, and entrepreneurial legacies.

Reflect on the ongoing struggle for equality and the continued pursuit of justice, leaving the tour with a renewed sense of empathy and appreciation.

Inclusions and Important Details

Alongside hotel pickup and drop-off, the tour includes an informed guide who recounts the poignant history, though gratuities aren’t covered within the tour cost.

The 3-hour walking experience allows guests to explore Savannah’s historic landmarks and uncover the African American journey from slavery to freedom.

Travelers will board a vehicle at their hotel and get dropped off to embark on a guided walk along River Street, Factors Walk, Bay Street, and Johnson Square.

Along the way, the guide will share insights into the history of West African tribes and slave labor, as well as the sites where cotton was shipped and slaves were auctioned.

This immersive tour provides a new perspective on Savannah’s dark past.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Discount for Senior Citizens or Students?

The tour does not currently offer any discounts for senior citizens or students. Pricing is the same for all participants. However, the tour company may consider introducing discounted rates in the future to make the experience more accessible.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Focus on Specific Interests?

The tour can be customized to focus on specific interests. Guests can request adjustments to the itinerary or highlight particular aspects of the African American history in Savannah that align with their interests and learning objectives.

Are There Any Restroom Breaks During the 3-Hour Walking Tour?

The tour includes periodic restroom breaks throughout the 3-hour walking experience, allowing participants to refresh themselves as needed. The guide will ensure there are sufficient opportunities to access restroom facilities during the tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration if Needed?

The tour typically lasts 3 hours, but the duration can be extended if needed. Participants should communicate any requests to extend the tour with the guide, who can accommodate within reason to ensure an engaging and informative experience.

Can the Tour Be Conducted in Any Other Languages Besides English?

The tour is currently only conducted in English. However, the tour provider may be able to accommodate other language requests, such as Spanish or French, if arranged in advance and depending on tour guide availability.

Recap

The Savannah African American History Walking Tour offers an immersive and impactful experience, guiding visitors through the city’s complex past.

By retracing the steps of the enslaved, the tour provides a deeper understanding of Savannah’s role in the transatlantic slave trade and the legacies that continue to shape the community today.

This insightful journey encourages reflection on the city’s transformative path towards reconciliation and preservation of this profound history.

You can check availability for your dates here: