About
Thanks to the foresight of General James Edward Oglethorpe in the 1700s, citizens and visitors could enjoy green spaces like those of Chippewa Square.
Speaking of Oglethorpe, a 9-foot bronze statue of the general is located in the Square. Sculptor Daniel Chester French crafted the figure, which faces south, symbolizing Oglethorpe's leadership against Spanish forces in Florida.
The park was established in 1815 to honor the American victory in the Battle of Chippewa during the War of 1812. This siege in Canada marked a turning point in the conflict, as American forces flexed their military prowess on the international stage.
The Square's design blends Savannah's traditional grid layout with a touch of elegance. It is framed by picturesque oaks draped in Spanish moss, lending it an atmosphere of calmness and timeless beauty.
Over the years, Chippewa Square has retained its significance as a central cultural hub. It played a pivotal role in Savannah's growth, hosting community events and becoming a source of pride for locals.
Its location in the Savannah Historic District makes it easy to combine multiple attractions when sightseeing. Within walking distance are the Telfair Museums and The Old Sorrel-Weed House Museum. Also nearby is the First African Baptist Church, which was established in 1773. With so much history and art to explore, your biggest challenge will be deciding where to visit first!
Chippewa Square's serenity and history allure visitors worldwide, making it one of Savannah's most celebrated spots.
Chippewa Square: Fun Facts & Cool Features
One could say that the movie Forrest Gump put Chippewa Square on the proverbial map! While the famous bench where Forrest shared his tales and chocolates is now in a museum, fans still flock here to relive the iconic scenes.
To continue your Forrest Gump experience, head to the Savannah History Museum to see the famous bench. While it was merely a fiberglass prop, it nonetheless added to the pivotal movie scene.
Another standout feature is its forward-thinking layout. The open space promotes community gatherings and interactions, as well as strolls and moments of reflection. One could easily spend a day exploring the area's greenways, such as Forsyth Park and its famous fountain.
The surrounding structures, like the Savannah Theatre, add allure to a visit. It is just steps away from the Square and is one of America's oldest continuously operating theaters, having opened in 1818. The Savannah Theatre continues to host performances that blend modern entertainment with historical significance.
As mentioned, Oglethorpe's statue is another reason to visit. It's a reminder of the audacious spirit of the settlers who envisioned Savannah as a bastion of freedom and opportunity. Whether a history or art buff, examining the statue firsthand will enhance your sightseeing experience.
Whether you explore Chippewa Square for its historic or cinematic connections or because it's near landmarks and restaurants like The Collins Quarter, visiting will enrich your vacation.
Getting There
Here are step-by-step driving directions from downtown Savannah to Chippewa Square:
- Begin at the intersection of Abercorn Street and East Bay Street in downtown Savannah.
- Head southwest on Abercorn Street for 0.3 miles.
- Turn left on West McDonough Street and drive for 0.1 miles.
- Turn left onto Bull Street.
- Drive straight, and Chippewa Square will be directly ahead.
- Address: 16 W Hull Street, Savannah, GA 31401
Local Tips
- Arrive in the early morning before the crowds gather.
- Parking can be tricky; download a parking app to quickly find nearby spaces.
- Bring a camera! The moss-covered trees and historic buildings make excellent photo backdrops.
- Grab a coffee from one of the cafes and enjoy at a bench in the Square.
