Columbia Square

A Glimpse into History

Tucked away in the northeast corner of Savannah's Historic District, Columbia Square is one of the city's 22 historic squares. Established in 1799, it was named after Columbia - the poetic personification of the United States (before Uncle Sam stole the spotlight, you might say).

You can find this charming green space on Habersham Street, nestled between State and York Streets.

The Square's Heart

At the center of Columbia Square, you'll spot the Wormsloe Fountain, added in 1970 as a tribute to Augusta and Wymberly DeRenne, descendants of Noble Jones - one of Georgia's earliest settlers.

Originally from Wormsloe Plantation, this isn't your average water feature. Its intricate designs of vines, leaves, and woodland motifs have earned it the nickname "rustic fountain" - understated, yet perfectly fitting.

If you happen to visit during St. Patrick's Day, you're in for a treat - the fountain's water transforms into a vibrant green, joining Savannah's festive celebrations in a way that would make any leprechaun proud.

Architectural Locations

The square is flanked by buildings that tell stories of Savannah's past. On the northwest corner stands the Isaiah Davenport House, a Federal-style beauty built in 1820.

This isn't just any historic home - it sparked Savannah's entire preservation movement when demolition threatened it in 1955, leading to the birth of the Historic Savannah Foundation. This building truly changed the course of Savannah's preservation history.

Also gracing the square is the Kehoe House, constructed in 1892. Designed in Renaissance Revival style by DeWitt Bruyn, it now welcomes guests as a bed and breakfast where you can literally sleep inside a piece of history.

The Abraham Sheftall House, dating back to 1818, has found new purpose as the office for the Historic Savannah Foundation - a fitting use for such a historically significant building.

Many architecture enthusiasts take the NOGS tour (North of Gaston Street), which includes Columbia Square in its exploration of the area's architectural treasures.

The Vibe

What sets Columbia Square apart is its tranquil atmosphere. While other squares might buzz with activity, this one maintains a peaceful character that invites you to slow down.

Majestic Southern live oak trees draped with Spanish moss create natural canopies, offering cool shade during Savannah's warmer months. These grand trees provide welcome shade with their distinctive Southern gothic appearance.

The square has a quiet, understated elegance that makes it fantastic for moments of reflection, a good book, or simply appreciating the stillness in the midst of your travels.

Things to Do

Columbia Square has become something of a romantic hotspot, with many couples choosing it as a backdrop for wedding ceremonies and photos. The intimate setting makes for a special backdrop for important occasions.

You'll often spot locals walking their dogs here, making it a prime location for pet-watching if that's your thing (and honestly, who doesn't enjoy seeing happy dogs out for a stroll?).

The park benches surrounding the fountain offer a wonderful perch to sit and listen to the soothing sounds of flowing water while people-watching or diving into a good read.

Information signs throughout the square share insights into its past, and if you catch one of the tour groups passing through, you might overhear fascinating stories about this beautiful space that's been witnessing Savannah life for over two centuries.