Savannah Riverfront Storyline
Follow the path of cotton, cannonballs, and cargo from the 1700s to today—each stop anchored in real maps and first-person accounts.
Start at the the historic riverfront near East Broad Street, where archaeological evidence confirms the presence of historic waterfront structures. Use the provided historic maps to trace how the river’s edge shifted over time—what is now a park was once a working dock, and what seems like open space was once stacked with cotton bales or containers. These maps, drawn from historical documents including maps and shipping records, show how the layout changed after the Civil War era when the city expanded toward the water.
Each waypoint includes a numbered marker referencing entries from the historical documents including war-era logistics records and business archives. At one point, you’ll notice wear patterns on cobblestones consistent with historic dockside activity. Another stop highlights how some riverfront buildings were used as medical facilities during the Civil War era.
The route remains open year-round, but low tide offers clearer access to original foundation stones near the old wharves. Bring binoculars to read weathered tombstone inscriptions at the near Colonial Park Cemetery, where public notices such as shipping schedules were sometimes posted. No boats or ferries are involved—the walk stays dry, but expect uneven steps near the bluff and frequent sightlines back toward the river.
