By Land and Sea
In the bold struggle for American Independence, one of the most pivotal battles of the Revolutionary War occurred at Savannah. After four weeks of British occupation, the assault culminated in the Battle of Savannah, which took place on the west end of the city, where Savannah History Museum and Battlefield Park stand today. There were eight hundred casualties in fifty minutes - one of the bloodiest hours of the Revolutionary War.
Weeks before the battle, the British sunk several of their own ships to block France's navy from sailing upriver to aid the Americans and their allies. The sunken items lay on the river's bottom for over 240 years, largely forgotten.
An Incredible Discovery
In 2021, during the Savannah Harbor Expansion Project, evidence of this event was discovered when 19 cannons and dozens of artifacts were recovered in the Savannah River. This is likely the most extensive collection of 18th-century artillery from a single Revolutionary War naval event to ascend from the water.
Saving History
These artifacts must undergo conservation or they will not survive. Once conserved, they will be exhibited at Savannah History Museum, where they will help tell the story of our nation's founding for generations to come. This incredible addition to the historic treasures of Savannah deepens our understanding of our nation's fight for independence.
We need your help to preserve this history.
To support this project, please contact Catherine Duffy at development@chsgeorgia.org, or 912-704-9865.
