The Wormsloe Historic Site, the oldest remains in Savannah from the time of the city's founding, is located about ten miles south of Savannah's Historic District. Besides the Historic District, other attractions in the area include Tybee Island, Fort Pulaski, Old Fort Jackson and Skidaway Island State Park. The site can be reached by taking the Harry S Truman Parkway south from downtown Savannah. The approach to the site is one of its most famous features - an avenue lined with more than 400 live oaks, dripping with Spanish moss, that arch over the roadway.
Wormsloe is an estate founded on land given to Noble Jones, who was one of the original settlers of Georgia, along with General James Oglethorpe, in 1733. Jones was a carpenter and physician on whom Oglethorpe relied for many tasks. The land was to be a working plantation, but also intended as a fortification against the Spanish, who were expected to attack from south of the city. At one time, a garrison of 53 marines was stationed at Wormsloe and engaged in the Battle of Bloody Marsh in 1742. According to the Savannah Morning News, "That small but significant engagement marked the last attempt by the Spanish to overrun Savannah and the rest of Georgia.''
The original compound at Wormsloe was made of tabby, a mixture of oyster shells with other materials that hardens into a concrete-like substance. Ruins of this fortified tabby residence are all that is left of the original dwelling. The descendants of Noble Jones live in a home nearby that was built in 1828, but this home is not part of the historic site. In addition to the tabby ruins, the Wormsloe Historic Site has several interpretive features:
A museum tells the story of the Jones family at Wormsloe and includes many archaeological artifacts found on the property, as well as a short film.
A nature trail highlights some the native marsh ecology as well as invasive species that were brought to the area by Europeans.
A living history program that has reconstructed buildings typical of the colonial period, as well as re-enactors who demonstrate early Georgia skills and crafts such as spinning, woodworking and cooking.
The Wormsloe Historic Site hosts several annual events that give visitors a look at colonial life in Georgia. These include:
The Colonial Faire and Muster, held in February, which recreates everyday life as the colonists might have lived it. Games, dancing and music, cooking, crafts and military displays are all part of this popular event.
The War of Jenkin's Ear, held every May, which focuses on Georgia's military operations during this little known war between England and Spain. Musket firing, cartridge making and military drills are all a part of this re-enactment.
Colonial Christmas at Wormsloe, which features holiday activities from colonial Georgia, including the burning of the yule log, games and refreshments.
Reviews of the Wormsloe Historic Site on Internet travel sites are mixed. Everyone agrees with this person, who said, "The long road lined with oak trees is reason enough to visit this site.'' The nature trail is also popular for its physical beauty. For the history, some loved it. One visitor said, "This was a worthy break from the Savannah action.'' Another person, however, notes, "I was disappointed that there wasn't much information regarding life on the plantation. ... The historical substance is a bit lacking.'' The consensus seems to be that this a peaceful, beautiful spot if you enjoy nature, but you need to be a true history buff if you come for that.
Review, comment, or add new information about this topic: