Savannah Day 2
As I woke, I could hear all kinds of activity behind my tent in the waterway. The birds were hunting for fish. Directly behind my tent were three signs. I though to myself, really, only the first sign is really needed.
Caution! Alligators may be present
Do not feed the alligators
No Swimming
It was still raining this morning and my planning began to change. I was going to walk St. Bonaventure Cemetery. I put that off until the afternoon when the rain was to stop. Many of the other places didn’t open until 10:00 or 11:00.
I went to the closest Starbucks between the campsite and Savannah. There were no parking spots including the businesses next door and there was a long line out onto the street. There was another coffee shop near by, Way Station Coffee in Richmond Hill. They had the same issue with no parking. They didn’t have a drive-thru but cars were blocking other cars. I found parking down the street and walked a short distance. I sat and made new plans for the day.
Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters
The Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters in Savannah, Georgia is a historic house museum that tells the story of life in Savannah during the early 19th century. The house was built in the Federal style between 1816 and 1819 for Richard Richardson, a wealthy merchant, and his wife Ann. The house is notable for its architectural features, including a grand entrance with a double staircase and a two-story colonnade. Notable in the house is the plumbing, which included running water, showers, and baths. The drinking water came from a well because the piping was made of lead.
The slave quarters on the property were used to house the enslaved people who worked in the house and on the surrounding property. The quarters were built in the early 19th century and are a poignant reminder of the harsh realities of slavery in the United States.
On a rainy day, a visit to the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters can be a great way to spend some time indoors while learning about the history of Savannah. The house is open to the public and guided tours are available, which provide visitors with an opportunity to learn about the lives of the people who lived and worked in the house.
Visitors can also learn about the architecture of the house and the various features that make it a unique and interesting example of Federal-style architecture. The house is decorated with a variety of period furnishings and art, which give visitors a sense of what life was like in the early 19th century.
Overall, a visit to the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters on a rainy day can be a fascinating and educational experience for anyone interested in history and / or architecture.
ASHER + RYE
I’d been to ASHER + RYE yesterday for a coffee. I was hoping to find a salad for lunch. There was a restaurant nearby on Jones street, but there was a very large birthday party going on. I went back to ASHER + RYE and ordered a small quiche and coffee.
The rain looked like it was going to allow me to go to the cemetary.
There is nothing quite like enjoying a warm cup of coffee and a slice of savory quiche on a rainy day at a cozy restaurant. I stopped by ASHER + RYE again because it was too difficult to find a restaurant nearby. The rich, aromatic flavors of the coffee lifted my spirits and provide a comforting pick-me-up. I sat and savored every bite and sip as I watched people walk by.
General Alexander R Lawton Building
On my drive to the cemetery, I stopped at a light and there were several prominent buildings on the corners. I parked in front of the General Alexander R Lawton Building. I had taken a photo of the Lawton memorial yesterday near Forsyth Park. I’ve not been able to find any reference to this building online.
Bonaventure Cemetery
I had done some reading about the cemetery and was mostly interested in photographing the trees, statues, and scenery. The grave sites, as one would expect, were of locals that were unfamiliar. The one exception was Johnny Mercer the American lyricist, songwriter, and singer who also founded Capital Records.
Bonaventure Cemetery in Savannah, Georgia is a stunningly beautiful and historic place that is well worth a visit for any history or photography enthusiast. Located just a short distance from the city center, the cemetery is home to a wide variety of trees, statues, and other architectural features that make for excellent photographic subjects.
The cemetery isn’t in the heart of the city. When I arrived, I expected to see parking and tour guides. It was actually pretty low key. A couple explained to me that I could park outside around the corner and just walk in. You’re actually able to drive most of the cemetery, which might have been a better way to do. My knee had been bothering me and by the end it wasn’t very happy.
I learned about the CSA (Confederate States of America) markings on grave sites. There were plots where the family fought in the Revolutionary war and Civil War for the south. Although I’m sure they exist, I didn’t see families where some of the family fought for the CSA and other fought for the Union.
One of the highlights of Bonaventure Cemetery is the stunning tree canopy that covers much of the grounds. The cemetery is home to a diverse array of trees, including oak, cypress, and palmetto, all of which provide a beautiful and natural backdrop for photographs. Whether you are capturing the dappled light filtering through the leaves or the gnarled branches of an old oak tree, the trees at Bonaventure Cemetery offer endless opportunities for creative photography.
In addition to the trees, the cemetery is also home to a number of statues and other architectural features that make for excellent photo subjects. From the grand mausoleums to the intricately carved headstones, there is no shortage of detail and texture to be found at Bonaventure Cemetery. Whether you are looking to capture the grandeur of the cemetery's monuments or the intimate details of a small headstone, you are sure to find plenty of interesting subjects to photograph.
Finally, no visit to Bonaventure Cemetery would be complete without paying tribute to one of Savannah's most famous residents, Johnny Mercer. The legendary songwriter is buried at the cemetery, and his grave is marked by a simple yet elegant headstone. Whether you are a fan of Mercer's music or simply want to capture the beauty of his final resting place, a photograph of his grave is a must-have for any visit to the cemetery.
Overall, Bonaventure Cemetery is a truly unique and beautiful place that offers endless opportunities for photography. Whether you are a professional photographer or simply someone who enjoys capturing the beauty of the world around them, a visit to the cemetery is sure to inspire and delight.
River Street
Walking along River Street in Savannah, Georgia is a truly delightful experience that offers stunning views of the city's historic waterfront. As you stroll along the cobblestone streets, you will be treated to breathtaking views of the Savannah River, which winds its way through the heart of the city. The river is home to a variety of boats and ships, which add to the charming atmosphere of the area.
As you walk along River Street, you will also have the opportunity to take in the charming architecture of the city. The buildings on River Street are some of the most historic and beautiful in Savannah, and many of them date back to the 18th and 19th centuries. From the grand mansions to the quaint cottages, the architecture of River Street is a true testament to the city's rich history and cultural heritage.
In addition to the stunning views of the river and the charming architecture, River Street is also home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and other attractions. From artisanal craft stores to historic landmarks, there is no shortage of things to see and do along the riverfront. Whether you are looking to do some shopping, grab a bite to eat, or simply take in the sights and sounds of the city, a walk along River Street is a must-do activity during any visit to Savannah.