Johnson Square | Savannah

Johnson Square is the oldest and one of the most historically significant public squares in Savannah, Georgia. Established in 1733, it holds a central place in the city’s founding and urban design, serving as a foundational element in Savannah’s famous grid of squares planned by General James Oglethorpe.

Location and Layout:

Johnson Square is located in the heart of Savannah’s Historic District. It is bounded by East Bryan Street to the north, East Congress Street to the south, Barnard Street to the west, and Bull Street to the east.

Bull Street, a major north-south artery in Savannah, runs through Johnson Square, highlighting the square’s role as a key intersection and focal point in the city’s layout.

Historical Significance:

Named after Robert Johnson, the colonial governor of South Carolina who supported the establishment of the Georgia colony, Johnson Square was the first of Savannah’s 22 historic squares to be laid out.

As the city’s original central square, Johnson Square quickly became a hub for government, commerce, and social life in colonial and early America.

The square has been the site of important historical events and continues to symbolize Savannah’s origins and enduring heritage.

Monuments and Features:

At the center of Johnson Square stands a prominent monument dedicated to General Nathanael Greene, a Revolutionary War hero who played a vital role in the Southern campaign. This monument, erected in 1825, is one of the oldest monuments in the city and serves as a tribute to Greene’s military leadership and legacy.

The square features mature live oak trees draped in Spanish moss, paved walkways, benches, and landscaped green spaces, making it a welcoming urban oasis.

Surrounding Architecture and Institutions:

Johnson Square is surrounded by a mix of historic and commercial buildings, reflecting Savannah’s development from colonial times through the present day.

Notable nearby structures include historic banks, office buildings, and churches, such as the First Bryan Baptist Church and various 18th- and 19th-century buildings that contribute to the square’s architectural richness.

The square has also served as a commercial hub, with many early mercantile establishments and financial institutions located nearby.

Community and Civic Role:

Johnson Square remains a lively part of Savannah’s downtown, hosting community events, markets, and public gatherings.

Its location and historical significance make it a popular destination for tourists exploring Savannah’s past and present.

Symbolic Importance:

As the city’s original square, Johnson Square represents the birth of Savannah’s unique town plan and is emblematic of the city’s colonial roots, civic pride, and historical continuity.

In summary, Johnson Square is a cornerstone of Savannah’s historic identity—both as the city’s oldest square and as a living center of culture, history, and urban life. It embodies Savannah’s colonial beginnings, commemorates Revolutionary War heroes, and continues to be a vibrant public space within the city’s celebrated Historic District.