Savannah Civil War Guided Walking History Tour

Savannah’s rich Civil War history comes alive through the Savannah Civil War Guided Walking History Tour. Exploring the city’s key sites, knowledgeable guides share engaging tales of military strategies and civilian struggles. From the iconic Fort Pulaski to the stately Green-Meldrim House, this 1.5-hour walking tour offers a personalized experience for history buffs and casual visitors alike. With pickup and drop-off services included, the tour makes it easy to explore Savannah’s storied past. What secrets and insights await those who join this captivating journey through the city’s pivotal role during the Civil War?

Good To Know

• The 1.5-hour tour explores Savannah’s role in the Civil War, including the seizure of Fort Pulaski and the occupation by Union General Sherman.
• Knowledgeable guides provide insights into Savannah’s military strategies, civilian hardships, and the significance of the Confederate States during the conflict.
• The tour visits notable sites like Warren Square, Fort Pulaski, and the Green-Meldrim House, with a focus on the city’s wartime history and experiences.
• The tour is wheelchair accessible, family-friendly, and includes pickup and drop-off services, making it a convenient and inclusive option for visitors.
• The tour is highly rated, with positive reviews highlighting the guides’ expertise and the engaging presentation of Savannah’s Civil War involvement.

Tour Overview

The Savannah Civil War Guided Walking Tour offers an engaging educational experience exploring the city’s rich Civil War history. Rated 4.0 from 301 reviews, this 1.5-hour tour takes visitors on a journey through Savannah’s key Civil War sites.

The maximum group size is 30 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience. The tour is wheelchair accessible, and comfortable shoes are recommended. Infant seats are available, making it family-friendly.

With pickup and drop-off services, as well as gratuities included, this tour provides a hassle-free way to explore Savannah’s pivotal role during the Civil War.

Historical Context

Savannah’s Historic District is one of the largest National Historic Landmark Districts in the United States, significant for its colonial government history and the first reading of the Declaration of Independence in Georgia.

Savannah’s Civil War involvement began in January 1860 with the seizing of Fort Pulaski, three months before the attack on Fort Sumter.

The tour includes notable sites such as houses of prominent Southern generals and buildings from the 1860s, providing insights into Savannah’s military strategies, civilian hardships during the war, and the role of the Confederate States.

Highlights of the Tour

The guided walking tour begins at Warren Square, taking visitors on an engaging journey through Savannah’s prominent role in the Civil War. Along the way, guests learn about the city’s military strategies, the hardships faced by its civilian population, and the vital role played by the Confederate States. The tour includes visits to notable sites such as the homes of prominent Southern generals and buildings dating back to the 1860s.

Key Locations	Historical Significance
Fort Pulaski	Seized by Confederates in 1860, marking the start of Savannah’s Civil War involvement
Warren Square	Starting point of the walking tour
Green-Meldrim House	Sherman’s headquarters during the war

The knowledgeable guides bring the city’s rich history to life, captivating participants with their humor and expertise.

Savannah’s Civil War Involvement

Savannah’s involvement in the Civil War began in January 1860, three months before the attack on Fort Sumter, when Confederate forces seized control of the strategically important Fort Pulaski.

This early seizure signaled Savannah’s role as a crucial Confederate stronghold throughout the war. The city’s historic district, now a National Historic Landmark, also played a significant part, with notable sites like the homes of prominent Southern generals and buildings from the 1860s featured on the tour.

Savannah’s civilians endured hardships during the conflict, and the tour covers the military strategies and the role of the Confederate States in the region.

Civilian Hardships During the War

During the Civil War, Savannah’s civilians endured immense hardships. With the city caught in the crossfire of the conflict, residents faced food shortages, economic turmoil, and the constant threat of battle. Many lost their homes and livelihoods as the Union army advanced.

Families were torn apart, and the city’s vibrant culture was suppressed under martial law. Civilians were forced to adapt to the harsh realities of war, scrounging for supplies and sheltering in basements to avoid the shelling.

Despite the challenges, Savannah’s resilient people banded together, finding ways to support each other and maintain a sense of community amidst the chaos.

Role of the Confederate States

The Confederate States played a crucial role in Savannah’s involvement during the Civil War. As a Confederate-held city, Savannah witnessed a range of military strategies and civilian hardships:

• The city’s strategic coastal location made it a hub for Confederate naval operations and the blockade-running trade.

• Savannah was the site of the seizure of Fort Pulaski, a key Confederate victory early in the war.

• The city’s industrial capacity provided essential resources for the Confederate war effort.

• Savannah’s residents faced shortages, inflation, and other economic challenges as the war progressed.

• The Green-Meldrim House served as the headquarters for Union General Sherman during his iconic "March to the Sea."

Participant Feedback

Travelers have provided a wealth of feedback about their experiences on the Savannah Civil War Guided Walking Tour.

Many praised the engaging and informative nature of the guides, particularly highlighting Zach’s humor and extensive knowledge. Participants felt the tour offered a compelling look into Savannah’s military strategies, civilian hardships during the war, and the role of the Confederate States.

However, some felt the tour focused too much on the city’s general history rather than the specific details of the Civil War.

Booking and Logistics

Starting at $30.00 per person, the Savannah Civil War Guided Walking Tour offers a compelling historical experience for visitors.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, it’s easy to plan your day. The tour departs from the middle of Warren Square, 22 Habersham St, and concludes at The Green-Meldrium home, 14 W Macon St.

Participants will enjoy:

• A small group setting, with a maximum of 30 travelers
• Knowledgeable guides who bring Savannah’s Civil War history to life
• Wheelchair accessibility and infant seats for added convenience
• Hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as gratuities, included in the price
• A duration of approximately 1.5 hours to explore the city’s pivotal role in the war.

Things To Known

How Steep Are the Walking Routes During the Tour?

The walking routes during the tour are not overly steep, as the guide aims to keep the pace comfortable for all participants. Comfortable shoes are recommended, but the terrain is generally flat and accessible.

Is There an Audio Component or Recorded Commentary Provided?

The tour doesn’t have an audio component or recorded commentary. Instead, it’s a guided walking tour, where a professional guide provides live commentary and insights throughout the experience, allowing for a more interactive and engaging learning experience.

Can We Take Photography During the Tour?

Participants are generally welcome to take photos during the tour, as long as they don’t disrupt the guide or group. It’s a great way to capture the historic sights and scenery along the way.

What Is the Average Group Size for This Tour?

The tour has a maximum group size of 30 travelers, allowing for a small and personalized experience. This ensures participants can engage with the guide and fully enjoy the historical exploration.

Are Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?

Restroom facilities are available during the tour, providing convenience to participants. The tour’s accessibility features also include wheelchair access and comfortable shoes, ensuring a comfortable experience for all travelers.

Sum Up

The Savannah Civil War Guided Walking History Tour offers an engaging and informative way to explore the city’s significant role during the Civil War. With knowledgeable guides, personalized experiences, and convenient logistics, this tour provides a unique opportunity for visitors to gain insights into the military strategies, civilian hardships, and historical significance of Savannah’s involvement in the conflict. Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious, this tour is a must-do for anyone visiting Savannah.