Savannah’s cobblestone streets and moss-draped squares tell countless stories. Yet, some of the most powerful narratives belong to the African American community that has shaped this coastal Georgia city for over two centuries. From hidden Underground Railroad stops to modern civil rights landmarks, these historic sites reveal a legacy of resilience, faith, and determination. The city’s African-American heritage spans from colonial times through the present day — weaving together tales of struggle and triumph that continue to inspire visitors from around the world.
Here is a list of 13 essential African-American history sites that showcase Savannah’s rich cultural tapestry and the enduring spirit of its Black community.
First African Baptist Church
Constituted in December 1777 by Reverend George Leile, the First African Baptist Church stands as the oldest continually active African American congregation in North America. The current building, completed in 1859, was constructed entirely by enslaved members who worked on surrounding plantations by day and labored on their sacred space by night.
During the Civil War, the church served as a crucial stop on the Underground Railroad — with runaway enslaved people hidden beneath the sanctuary floor through ventilation openings arranged in the pattern of an African prayer symbol.
Second African Baptist Church
This historic congregation gained national significance when General Rufus Saxton publicly addressed former enslaved people here about Sherman’s Special Field Order #15, better known as the famous “forty acres and a mule” proclamation…