Touring Savannah
by: Gail Lang

My curiosity was sparked after receiving the article submission about Georgia for the last issue of SouthernPRIDE. John Pardee ended his story with "Did I get a true picture of the South? Probably not, but it did create some memories." I was certain this was true. He seems not to have a true picture of Georgia in his mind, it is much more beautiful than the memories he recalls through his writings. This article is for you John, and for others who might be curious about Georgia.

We took a day trip to Savannah for just a taste of the Peach State. What we saw and learned in that one day was incredibly fascinating.

If one had to sum Savannah up in a single phrase, I would think it would best be described as being "a city of contrast." There is history, art, warmth, and beauty in every corner, but there is also contrast almost everywhere you look. We didn't get to see all of Savannah. Since we were to be there for just a day, we went straight to the heart of the historic city and began our visit by taking a trolley tour rather than wandering aimlessly. This proved to be an extremely wise choice. Whether you have a day or a week to spend in Savannah, I would fully recommend that you begin your stay in like manner--with a trolley or horse drawn carriage tour. The drivers are well rehearsed in the speeches they give during the trip, and, no doubt, you will be fascinated by all the tidbits of history they have to share with you.

Our journey began in the parking lot of the Chamber of Commerce which is also shared by the Savannah College of Art and Design. This college opened in a small building buried within the historic district, but eventually grew to such a point that they expanded into the abandoned railroad buildings. The old buildings give a graceful and unique look to the school, and I'm sure it inspires many students to creativity. Art surrounds you at every corner in many forms. It was a pleasure to see just how artistic this city is. Two original pieces of art that caught my eye were located in a couple of the many city squares. The piece below on the left is an iron watering fountain for dogs and cats. It is so graceful, one would be unlikely to discern its function without close inspection. The other image shows art of a more contemporary genre, but still very beautiful in its own right.

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