Telfair Academy of Arts & Science
Telfair Academy should be near the top of your list of museums to visit while in Savannah. Five large statues and four columns are the noticeable features on the front of this impressive building, which was designed by British Architect William Jay and was once a mansion owned by the prestigious Telfair Family.
Since the late 1800's it has been a period museum that lets you walk into the past and enjoy furnishings and artwork from the last two centuries. For more than 125 years, The Telfair Academy of Arts & Science has welcomed visitors who are ready to step back into time.
Museum Information
- Architect: William Jay (neoclassical Regency design)
- Recommended Visit Time: At least 3 hours
- Part of: Telfair Museums organization
- Founded: Late 1800s (125+ year history)
- Special Note: No photography allowed inside
Telfair Museums System
Telfair Academy operates under the Telfair Museums organization, which also oversees the Owens-Thomas House & the recently constructed modern art masterpiece, Jepson Center. You'll get the best admission price if you purchase a package ticket that allows entry into all of these wonderful tourist attractions.
Museum Collections & Highlights
Greek & Roman sculpture reproductions
Famous Bird Girl Statue (Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil)
Period rooms from the 19th century
William Jay neoclassical Regency architecture
The only disappointment many tourists mention on visiting The Telfair Academy is the "no photography rule." Taking photos inside the museum is restricted, including the famous Bird Girl Statue.
Visitor Tip: History lovers and art aficionados will love a visit to all three museums. The recommend time to browse all the exhibits here is at least 3 hours.
The Distinguished Telfair Family
So how did this Telfair family end up with a famous city square and world class museum named after themselves? The Telfairs were quite an important family in Savannah during the late 1700s and 1800s.
First executive after ratification of Georgia's constitution
Commissioned neoclassical Regency mansion in 19th century
Transferred family mansion to Georgia Historical Society
Historical Context: To give you a sense of history, 1789 was the year George Washington's first term as President began. Edward Telfair fought in the Revolutionary War as a soldier long before his political career began.
Historic Location
The original mansion and the new art museum both sit on Telfair Square -- part of the notable grid of squares that are the hallmark feature of the Savannah Historic District.
The city of Savannah has benefited greatly by the contributions of this family. Visiting their former home that is now open to the public for educational enrichment and artistic appreciation is one way you can learn more about the history of Savannah.