Whitefield Square

A Square With History

Found in Savannah's historic district is Whitefield Square, established in 1851 and holding the distinction of being the last of Savannah's beautiful squares to be laid out. Named after Reverend George Whitefield, an early minister in the Georgia colony who founded the Bethesda Orphanage back in 1740, this charming space sits on Habersham Street between Taylor and Gordon Streets and forms part of Savannah's National Historic Landmark District. One small footnote about the namesake: despite the spelling, Whitefield's surname was actually pronounced "Whitfield." The institution he founded still operates today on the south side of Savannah, now known as Bethesda Academy.

What You'll See

At the heart of Whitefield Square stands a gorgeous Victorian-era gazebo, surrounded by blooming azalea bushes that create a picture-perfect setting. It's no wonder this spot has become a favorite for couples tying the knot!

Take a moment to appreciate the post-Civil War architecture surrounding the square - the area showcases beautiful homes built in Victorian and Queen Anne styles that add to the square's undeniable charm. The oldest surviving building on the square, at 412 - 414 East Taylor Street, dates to 1855 - just four years after the square itself was laid out, a reminder of how quickly this part of Savannah took shape.

Beyond the Beauty

There's more to Whitefield Square than meets the eye. The First Congregational Church, an important landmark in Savannah's African-American history, stands proudly on the northwest corner.

The ground beneath your feet holds significant history too. The original cemetery was established in 1805, initially covering only the northern end of what is now the square and surrounding blocks, before being expanded in 1812 and again in 1818 to eventually encompass the square's southern end as well. The site was officially closed in 1844 - several years before the square was laid out - but it served as a burial ground for African Americans, including enslaved people, making it one of the largest un-exhumed slave burial grounds in Savannah. Notable figures such as Andrew Bryan, founder of the First African Baptist Church, and Henry Cunningham, minister of the Second African Baptist Church, were laid to rest here.

A ground-penetrating radar survey conducted in 2025 identified around 80 graves still believed to be beneath the surface, casting doubt on whether all burials were actually relocated when the cemetery was closed. That finding adds a more complicated dimension to what you're walking through today.

Taking a Breather

Today, the square offers a peaceful retreat from the bustle of city life. With grassy areas and comfortable benches, it's excellent for a moment of quiet reflection or people-watching. Many consider it one of Savannah's most beautiful squares, and we can see why.

The gazebo provides welcome shade for weary explorers, while the gardens attract colorful butterflies during the day and twinkling fireflies in the evening, creating an almost magical atmosphere as dusk falls.

Picture Perfect Moments

If you're into photography, visit during sunrise or sunset when sunlight bounces off the city's glass and gold elements, bathing the square in a warm, glittering light.

The intimate setting has made Whitefield Square a natural choice for weddings and elopements, with the gazebo acting as a ready-made altar. The space feels personal and serene, ideal for meaningful ceremonies.

For the best experience, consider visiting during spring or fall (April-June and late August-October) when the weather and natural surroundings are at their most inviting.

Good to Know

You'll find free parking available around the perimeter of the square, making it easy to visit even if you're driving through Savannah.

Smaller and quieter than some of Savannah's more bustling squares, Whitefield offers an intimate setting that feels like discovering a secret garden in the midst of the historic district.