Savannah: Colonial Park Cemetery Guided Tour

Savannah’s Colonial Park Cemetery offers visitors a chance to step back in time and explore the city’s rich history. Led by a knowledgeable guide, the 1.5-hour tour provides an intimate look at the cemetery’s notable burials, including two signers of the Declaration of Independence and a Revolutionary War general. Navigating the accessible, rain-or-shine experience, guests can discover the stories behind these influential figures and learn about the cemetery’s significance as the oldest public land in Savannah’s historic district. With scenic landmarks and a literary legacy to uncover, this tour promises to captivate those drawn to the city’s past.

Key Points

• The 1.5-hour guided tour of Savannah’s Colonial Park Cemetery provides an intimate exploration of notable burials and historical figures.
• The cemetery is the oldest public land in Savannah’s historic district and the resting place of two signers of the Declaration of Independence.
• Visitors can discover the stories behind figures like Nathanael Greene, a Revolutionary War general, and Caty Greene, inventor of the cotton gin.
• The tour is accessible for wheelchairs and scooters, and visitors are recommended to wear closed-toe shoes due to the uneven terrain.
• The cemetery’s central location in Savannah’s historic district allows for convenient exploration of surrounding landmarks and attractions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Duration and Experience Details

The Colonial Park Cemetery guided tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours and is led by a live tour guide.

The small group experience is limited to just 2 participants, providing an intimate and personalized exploration of the notable burials and historical significance of this iconic Savannah landmark.

Visitors will explore fascinating stories about Savannah’s past and the materials that make up the city. They’ll see the burial sites of two Declaration of Independence signers and the Liberty Boys who changed the course of the nation.

With closed-toe shoes recommended due to the terrain, the tour runs rain or shine and is accessible for wheelchairs and scooters, ensuring an engaging and accessible experience for all.

Historical Significance of the Cemetery

Savannah’s Colonial Park Cemetery stands as the oldest public land in the historic district, holding the resting places of pivotal figures who’ve shaped the city’s past.

Two signers of the Declaration of Independence and a close contender are buried here, their legacies interwoven with the Liberty Boys who fought to change the course of the nation.

Nathanael Greene and his widow Caty made lasting impacts, with Caty’s invention of the cotton gin launching the South’s agrarian empire.

Beyond these noteworthy graves, the cemetery also boasts the birthplace of renowned poet Conrad Aiken, as well as the infamous Dueling Grounds and Hanging Tree that bear witness to Savannah’s storied history.

Notable Burials and Figures

Two signers of the Declaration of Independence and a close contender lay at rest within Colonial Park Cemetery, their legacies still reverberating through Savannah’s history.

The cemetery is the final resting place for Button Gwinnett and Lyman Hall, both of whom signed the Declaration, as well as Joseph Habersham, who was nominated but didn’t sign.

Beyond these Founding Fathers, the cemetery contains the burial sites of Nathanael Greene, a Revolutionary War general, and his wife Caty, who’s credited with helping launch the South’s cotton-powered agrarian empire.

Strolling through the historic grounds, visitors can discover the stories behind these notable figures who shaped America’s past.

Surrounding Landmarks and Attractions

Surrounding the historic Colonial Park Cemetery are several landmarks that offer additional insight into Savannah’s past. Just a stone’s throw away sits Conrad Aiken’s birthplace, a testament to the city’s rich literary heritage. Nearby, the Old City Jail stands as a reminder of the area’s tumultuous history, while the infamous Dueling Grounds nearby played host to many high-stakes conflicts. The Hanging Tree, a somber landmark, bears witness to the dark chapters of Savannah’s past. These surrounding sites, when explored in tandem with the cemetery tour, provide a multifaceted understanding of the city’s complex and captivating narrative.

Landmark	Significance
Conrad Aiken’s Birthplace	Represents Savannah’s literary legacy
Old City Jail	Reflects the area’s tumultuous history
Dueling Grounds	Site of many high-stakes conflicts
Hanging Tree	Somber reminder of Savannah’s dark past
Colonial Park Cemetery	Focal point of the guided tour

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Accessibility and Attire Recommendations

The tour organizers recommend wearing closed-toe shoes due to the uneven terrain within the Colonial Park Cemetery.

Wheelchairs and scooters can access the site, making the tour an inclusive experience for visitors of all mobility levels.

The guided tour runs rain or shine, so attendees should dress accordingly for the weather conditions.

The cobblestones and uneven ground can pose challenges for those in wheelchairs or with limited mobility, but the tour operators have ensured the cemetery is accessible.

Regardless of the weather, the tour continues as scheduled, so packing layers and rain gear is advisable.

With these simple accommodations, visitors can fully enjoy the rich history and notable burials of the Colonial Park Cemetery.

Tour Schedule and Weather Considerations

The Colonial Park Cemetery guided tour operates rain or shine, ensuring visitors can explore the historic site regardless of the weather conditions.

Tour participants can expect the following:

• The 1.5-hour tour runs on a set schedule, with multiple departures throughout the day.
• Guides are prepared to lead the tour in all types of weather, so guests should dress accordingly.
• While the cemetery itself is accessible, the terrain can be uneven, so closed-toe shoes are recommended.

In the event of severe weather, the tour may be delayed or cancelled, but the team will make every effort to accommodate guests.

Location and Proximity to Historic District

Colonial Park Cemetery sits at the heart of Savannah’s historic district, making it easily accessible for visitors.

Its central location puts guests just steps away from other notable landmarks like Conrad Aiken’s birthplace, the Old City Jail, and the infamous dueling grounds.

This prime real estate allows tour-goers to fully enjoy the city’s rich history.

After exploring the cemetery’s captivating burial sites and learning about Savannah’s past, travelers can conveniently visit the surrounding areas to continue their journey through the historic district.

The cemetery’s strategic placement ensures a comprehensive experience that blends the old and new, giving visitors a true taste of Savannah’s unique heritage.

Additional Tour Information

Savannah’s Colonial Park Cemetery tour offers more than just a glimpse into the city’s historic past. Guests can expect a lively and engaging experience led by knowledgeable local guides who bring the cemetery’s stories to life. The tour is designed to cater to a small group, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

Participants can look forward to:

1. Walking through the oldest public land in Savannah’s Historic District, taking in the unique architecture and materials that have shaped the city.
2. Hearing fascinating tales about the notable individuals buried here, including two signers of the Declaration of Independence.
3. Exploring the surrounding landmarks, such as the Conrad Aiken’s birthplace and the old dueling grounds.
4. Experiencing the tour rain or shine, with accessibility for wheelchairs and scooters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Photography and Videography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography and videography are generally allowed during the tour, but visitors should be mindful of being respectful of the cemetery and other participants. It’s best to check with the tour guide for any specific rules or restrictions.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs or Gifts at the End of the Tour?

The Colonial Park Cemetery tour does not have an on-site gift shop, so visitors won’t be able to purchase souvenirs or gifts directly after the tour. However, there are plenty of shops and boutiques nearby in Savannah’s historic district.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?

Yes, there are restroom facilities available during the tour. The tour takes place in an outdoor setting, so participants can use nearby public restrooms as needed to accommodate their needs throughout the 1.5-hour experience.

What Is the Tour Guide’s Level of Expertise and Knowledge?

The tour guide is a knowledgeable expert on Savannah’s history and the cemetery’s significance. They’ll share fascinating stories and insights that bring the cemetery’s past to life throughout the 1.5-hour walking tour.

Can I Join the Tour if I Have a Physical Disability or Impairment?

Yes, the tour is accessible for those with physical disabilities or impairments. The tour is wheelchair and scooter accessible, so guests with mobility challenges can fully experience the historical highlights of the cemetery.

Recap

The Colonial Park Cemetery guided tour in Savannah offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the city’s rich history.

Led by knowledgeable guides, the experience showcases the cemetery’s significance as the oldest public land in Savannah’s historic district, featuring the graves of notable figures like signers of the Declaration of Independence.

With its accessibility and year-round availability, the tour provides an immersive and informative look into Savannah’s past, making it a must-visit for those interested in the city’s storied heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: