About Johnson Square
Johnson Square is drenched in history. It was the first of the original squares laid out by Savannah's founders in 1733. The square takes its name from Robert Johnson, who acted as the governor of colonial South Carolina and who was an ally of Georgia's founder James Edward Oglethorpe. It is said that some of American history's greatest men gave speeches in this location, including George Washington, the Marquis de Lafayette, Henry Clay and Daniel Webster.
Sitting on Bull Street and flanked by Congress and Bryan Streets, the square boasts two lovely fountains and a remarkable bronze and marble sundial in honor of William Bull, also a friend of Oglethorpe. A historic map of the city of Savannah is etched in its face.
A striking obelisk dating from 1825 stands in the center of Johnson Square in memory of the Revolutionary War hero Nathanael Greene, whose remains are actually buried there in the square, along with those of his son. The two were originally laid to rest in Savannah's Colonial Park Cemetery, but the burial site was lost during the Civil War when Union soldiers ravaged the graveyard. The remains were eventually found, their identities confirmed and moved to their present location.
Known to many locals as "Bank Square," Johnson Square is at the center of the banking district of the downtown area, as it is surrounded on all sides by the impressive buildings of busy major banks. Because of its location, the square is heavily trafficked during the day by bankers and other locals who are either doing business or simply enjoying a break outdoors in the beautiful common area. At night, the square is alive with couples, tour groups and partygoers who frequent the nearby restaurants and bars.
On most nice days, you can see local art students sketching or filming class projects here. The area is also often filled by the sounds of the church bells of Christ Church, Georgia's first church, and street musicians performing for change. You will also find lots of benches to sit and enjoy the live oak trees, take a break from touring the city and enjoy a picnic lunch and a cold beer (only in a plastic cup!), which is especially nice on a hot summer day.
Historic Christ Church Marker
This historic marker in Johnson Square commemorates Christ Church Episcopal, the Mother Church of Georgia established in 1733, located just steps from the square on the east side. The marker details the church's founding with the Georgia Colony, its famous ministers including John Wesley and George Whitfield, and its connection to Juliette Gordon Low, founder of the Girl Scouts of America.
Notable Features
- Largest of Savannah's historic squares
- First square established in Oglethorpe's 1733 plan
- Central location in the Historic District
- Surrounded by historic architecture
- Beautiful mature live oak trees
- Named after colonial governor Robert Johnson