Hostess with the Mostest

TIdbits & Pop Culture

Savannah is affectionately known as "The Hostess City” - and for good reason! Most locals are blessed with the gift of gab and will happily share all the reasons they fiercely love Savannah. We feel confident you will love Savannah as much as we do, but just in case, check out some of our favorite tidbits and pop culture references.

Get excited for ALL THINGS Savannah!

For your information

Here are a few lesser known facts about Savannah!

History and Culture

Savannah is the oldest city in Georgia and is steeped in history! The city was the first planned city in America and its squares continue to share their beauty with locals and visitors alike. If you would like to learn more about Savannah’s history, check out the link below.

Did you know that Savannah is known as one of America’s most haunted cities? Check out the link below to learn why.

During December of 1864, in the final months of the Civil War, General William T. Sherman captured the city of Savannah on his “march to the sea”. He offered the city, “150 heavy guns and plenty of ammunition and also about 25,000 bales of cotton” as an early Christmas gift to President Lincoln.

The holiday favorite Jingle Bells was actually written in Savannah, Georgia by James Peirpont in 1857!

Johnny Mercer is another famous figure to put Savannah on the music map. He is a legendary singer/songwriter and was the founder of Capital Records.

Savannah was home to other historic figures such as Juliette Gordon Low, founder of the Girl Scouts. Her childhood mansion is now a museum and frequented by girl scouts from around the world. Cookie season begins January 1st so make sure to indulge with a box of your favorites!

Savannah is well known for its love of the traditional southern praline! The delicious treats are a blend of different ingredients - primarily pecans and sugar! River Street Sweets or its sister store, Savannah Candy Kitchen, always have free samples. Make sure to indulge in the Savannah staple while you visit us!

Savannah’s open container law encourages a local love of spirits - drinks, not ghosts! Savannah is most famous for its Chatham Artillery Punch. The drink is named after the Chatham Artillery, a militia unit originally formed to protect the city of Savannah in 1776. There are several colorful legends surrounding the beginnings of Chatham Artillery Punch but it is safe to say that the larger-than-life libation packs a strong “punch” even today! In keeping with tradition, current recipes include various types of liquors, sweet wine, fruit, and a healthy dose of sugar! The concoction “marinates” for at least 48 hours before being served.

This was a personal favorite of Margaret’s dad so we will end the weekend’s official wedding festivities with a Chatham Artillery Punch toast!

Saint Patrick’s Day in Savannah is one of the most important holidays of the year in the Lowcountry- steeped in family, faith, tradition, and lots of green beer! The first parade was held on March 17th, 1824 and has remained a cornerstone of Savannah culture. The parade draws almost 400,000 visitors annually and yes, we dye the fountains green!

For one last piece of current Savannah culture, check out The Savannah Bananas! The Bananas are the summer league baseball team and play to sold-out crowds each summer. They have cheerleaders appropriately named “The Savannah Nanas” and a “St. Patrick’s Day in July” game where the players wear kilts! They play at Historic Grayson Stadium which has seen legends such as Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Hank Aaron, Ty Cobb, and Jackie Robinson. Grayson Stadium is in our neighborhood so we love walking to games in the summer. The Savannah Bananas have gone viral so make sure to check out their social media accounts for a glimpse into their entertainment genius!

Books and Literature

Midnight in the garden of good and Evil: A Savannah Story

Perhaps one of the most well-known pieces of literature set in Savannah is Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil written by John Berendt. The story follows the true events of a murder that rocked Savannah society in the 1980s. It is a must-read!

Make sure to check your wedding welcome bag! Your own personal copy of the Savannah classic might be waiting for you - hint hint!

Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island was written by a Scottish author but has roots in Savannah, Georgia. As the story goes, the famed Long John Silver tells of the wicked Captain Flint drinking himself to death at a Savannah inn. Many believe the infamous inn is The Pirates’ House and that Stevenson was inspired to use the site in his novel after visiting Savannah. The Pirates’ House is now a restaurant steeped in history and haunted lore!

Flannery O’Conner is a famous writer who grew up in Savannah. Her darkly comedic short stories focus on life and culture in the South.

Film and Television

The film and television industry recognizes Savannah’s beauty and charm by frequently using our city as a backdrop for filming major motion pictures and television.

Forrest Gump is one of the most well-known films shot in Savannah. It is a local favorite and personal favorite!

Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil is not only a book but also a major motion picture. The movie helped boost Savannah tourism and is a local favorite.

The Legend of Bagger Vance is another classic film set in Savannah. The fictional tale centered around golf, Savannah, and a true comeback story - all of Patrick’s favorites!