S A V A N N A H.

    1584.---The first suggestion which history gives of the presence of a white man upon the site of Savannah, is found in the tradition that in this year, 1584, Sir Walter Raleigh landed here, and held conference with an Indian chief at a point near or upon what is now known as Gas Works Hill. This spot also marks the burial place of the chief, who chose it in memory of his compact with the "great white man with a red beard."

    1670.---American Treaty entered into between England and Spain, the latter power occupying St. Augustine, but no precise line being defined Carolina and Florida. Hence a small military post was established at south end of Cumberland Island.

    1717.---Sir Robert Montgomery secured from the Palatinate and Lords Proprietor of the Province of Carolina, a grant and release of all lands between the Altamaha and Savannah rivers. This territory was to be named the "Margravate of Azilia," Sir Robert's attempt to colonize the lands failed, and in 1720, they reverted back to the Lords' Proprietor of Carolina.

    1720.---King George I. ordered General Nicholson, then Governor of South Carolina, to erect a fort at some suitable point, to hold possession of the Altamaha from either Spanish or French invasion, and Fort King George was erected near the confluence of the Oconee and Ocmulgee Rivers.

    1732.---Charter granted June 9th by King George II, to John, Lord Viscount Percival, James Oglethorpe, and their associates, to the lands lying between the Altamaha and Savannah Rivers, and they were incorporated as the "Trustees for establishing the Colony of Georgia in America," with Lord Percival as president of the corporation.

    November 17th, the Anne, galley of 200 tons burden, sailed from Gravesend, with 130 persons, representing thirty-five families on board, including Hon. James Oglethorpe and Rev. Henry Herbert, a clergyman of the Church of England, who went as chaplain.

    1733.---On January 13th, the Anne dropped anchor outside Charleston Bar. Two young children had died on the voyage. Oglethorpe entertained by citizens of Charleston.

    January 14th, the Anne sailed for Port Royal, and on the 19th, reached Beaufort, where the colonists landed, and were made comfortable at "new barracks" of the Royal Artillery. Oglethorpe, accompanied by Colonel William Bull, proceeded to the Savannah River, ascended to Yamacraw Bluff, landed and marked site for town, which, from river, he named Savannah.

    Oglethorpe held interview with Tomo-chichi, chief of the Yamacraw Indians, and through Mary Musgrove, wife of a Carolina trader, as interpreter, secured from Indians pledges of amity.

    January 30th, colonists left Beaufort in sloop of seventy tons and five periaguas, and on February 1st, "the whole people landed, and got their tents up," in the afternoon. February 9th, the first house was begun, and February 12th, Oglethorpe writes, "two clapboard houses are built, and three sawed houses framed."

    In March, a few additional colonists arrived via Charleston, and in May, seventeen persons arrived on the James, Captain Yoakley, he receiving the prize offered by trustees to "first ship which should sail up the Savannah, and unload at the town."

    July 7th, about one hundred and fifty settlers had arrived, and the people assembled at Oglethorpe's tent to name wards, squares and streets. Later, lots were assigned, "a bounteous repast partaken of," after which a Court of Record was established.

    July 11th, a party of forty Israelites arrived, but all save three families, those of Abraham Minis, Benjamin Sheftall and Abraham DeLyon, shortly removed to Charleston.

    Minis seems to have opened a store at once, being mentioned as a storekeeper in reports of that year, While Dr. Nunez of this party, received first mention as a physician.

    In September and October, £10,000 having been applied by Government, to "encourage the settlement," two more vessels, with 341 persons, "principally persecuted Protestants from Saltzburgh, in Germany," were sent.

    1734.---March 12th, the Purysburgh, with seventy-eight Saltzburghers, arrived, and were established by Oglethorpe, at a place twenty-four miles from Savannah, which they called Ebenezer.

    Ninety-one houses had now been constructed in Savannah, beside a Court House, a house for strangers, a public mill or oven, a public store, parsonage-house and guardhouse. A crane for hauling goods up the bluff had been erected, a fort and palisades to guard from attack by land, and a battery for protection by water established.

    A map drawn by Peter Gordon, at this time, definitely marks all places of note, so that they can readily be pointed out now.

    Directly in front of 14 Bay, West, stood the four pines, under which tents were pitched by the colonists on their first night in Georgia.

    Stairs leading from the top of the bluff to the river were just east of the trees, 10 Bay, West, now covering the site, Mr. Oglethorpe's tent, where he resided during the whole time of his stay, or from February, 1733, to April, 1734, was under the trees.

    The Crane and Bell, the first used to hoist goods up the bluff, and the second to call the colonists together, were located just west of the trees on the bluff, 24 Bay, West, now covering the site.

    The Court House and Tabernacle was on the northeast corner of Bull Street, and Bay Lane, on the ground, now covered by the rear portion of the Custom House. The Public Mill was on Bryan Street, occupying about the center of the site, now covered by the Southern Express Company Building.

    The location of the House for Strangers, is now occupied by the People's Saving and Loan Company, 22-24 Congress Street, West.

    The Public Oven was on the northeast corner of Congress and Whitaker Streets, where Leo Frank's store, now stands. The Draw-well was in the center of Bull Street, at the present intersection of Congress Lane.

    The lot for the church is now occupied by Christ Church. No church building was erected upon the site until several years after it had been set apart for the purpose.

    The Public Store stood where Hull & Lathrop's Bank now stands, at 22 Bull Street.

    The Fort was located on the line of President Street, just east of Drayton.

    The Parsonage was on lot in rear of church lot, and just east of Drayton Street.

    The Palisades started on the Bluff at what is now 110 Bay

Street, East, and ran due south to midway between Bay Lane and Bryan Street.

    The Guard House and the Battery stood about where the present Cotton Exchange stands.

    On April 7th, Oglethorpe returned to England, taking with him Tomo-chi-chi, his wife, Scenawki, his nephew and adopted son, Toonahowi, and six other chiefs. Thomas Causton as chief bailiff and public storekeeper, was left in charge of the colony.

    The followin first known mention of cotton in Georgia is from manuscript in Public Record office, London:

    "My Lords and gentlemen, I have already sowed and planted cottonseed, about 200, orangeseed, about 3,000.

    Savannah, Ga., Jan. 15, 1734-35. Elisha Dobree."

    1735.---People of England contributed £31,416, 7s., 7d. sterling, to "purposes of colonization in Georgia," and eighty-one persons, principally Saltzburghers, were added, at Trustees' expense, to the colony, joining their countrymen at Ebenezer.

    November 30th, St. Andrews' Day, celebrated by the Scotch Club.

    1736.---February 4th, Oglethorpe returned from England, accompanied by Revs. John and Charles Wesley, and Sunday following their arrival, Rev. John Wesley (later founder of Methodism), preached his first sermon in America, upon lot fronting present St. James' Square, opposite Trinity Church, his text being the Epistle for the day, 1st Corinthians, Chapter 13, and his theme, "Christian Charity." Wesley established first Sunday School in the world in Christ Church Parish. His first book of hymns was written here in 1736, and published in Charleston, in 1737.

    Mr. Francis Moore, a visitor to the colony in this year, reports about 150 houses in the town, some two or three stories high, with "several people of good substance in the town." "No slavery is allowed, nor negroes; all brandies and distilled liquors are prohibited, under severe penalties; no lawyers are allowed to plead, nor no attorneys to take money, but every man pleads his own cause." Oglethorpe returned to England, November 29th. Robert and John Williams reported this year as having a store.

    1737.---Rev. George Whitfield arrived in May, accompanied by Mr. James Habersham. Trustees granted him a tract of land near Savannah for the purpose of establishing an asylum for poor children.

    November 1st, William Stephens arrives and assumes position of Secretary for the Trustees.

    December 11th, first military funeral, when John Vanderplank was buried from his residence at northeast corner Bull and State Streets, escorted by forty men under arms, who fired three volleys over the grave.

    1738.---April 20th, Robert Williams sailed to West Indies upon trading account.

    May 6th, first detachment of Oglethorpe's Regiment arrived under Lieutenant Colonel Cochran.

    June 7th, the Common Council removed Thomas Causton from office as first bailiff, and he was succeeded by Henry Parker.

    September 19th, Oglethorpe arrived from England, with balance of regiment for protection of colony, landing at Frederica.

    October 10th, Oglethorpe arrived in Savannah, and welcomed with bonfires and public rejoicings.

    October 18th, Causton dismissed as public storekeeper by Oglethorpe, and Thomas Jones appointed.

    October 19th, first fire mentioned, destroying houses of Giles Becu, a French baker, and Peter Baillou, a French hatter.

    December 7th, one Prevost is mentioned as "keeping store," also the firm of "Solomon & Minis."

    December 9th, appeal, signed by nearly all the freeholders of Savannah, asking admission of slaves into colony, presented to General Oglethorpe.

    December 28th, a Mr. Phelps receives mention as a "Scotch merchant."

    1739.---March 31st, "Mr. William Kellaway, being granted a lot on river front, has set up a large storehouse; Mr. Brownfield keeps a large warehouse, also Mr. Woodruff, a haberdasher."

    April 11th, Oglethorpe orders a wharf to be built by Mr. Duchet, "the potter."

    May 29th, "Captain Davis, a wealthy ship owner," has lot on river front, adjoining Kellaway.

    June 20th, Trustees addressed letter to the "Magistrates of the town of Savannah," refusing to permit the introduction of slaves into the colony.

    July 11th, "stores are being built by Calvert, Montagut and Pury."

    August 21st, new treaty entered into between General Oglethorpe and the chiefs of the Indian nations for a more friendly alliance.

    October 3d, announcement received of war between England and Spain. William Stephens' journal states that on this date Tomochichi was buried, though all historians, basing statement upon a letter from Savannah, October 10th, 1739, and published shortly after in the "Gentleman's Magazine," say that on October 5th, Tomochichi died, aged "about 97," and in accord with his request, his remains were brought to the town, met by "Oglethorpe, the magistrates and people," and borne to Percival (now Wright) Square, where it was lowered into the earth, while three volleys of musketry were fired by the militia.

    December 21st, Captain Davis is running a privateer against Spain.

    1740.---February 29th, negro slave, former property of Rev. Mr. Dyson, chaplain of the regiment, sold at auction for 23£, 5s.

    March 25th, Whitfield "laid with his own hands, the first brick for the Orphan House at Bethesda."

    March 26th, Stephens writes to the trustees that he "purposes experiment with cotton," from the West Indies, "where it grows perennial."

    April 28th, two companies of South Carolina Regiment in the expedition against Spanish at St. Augustine, raised in Georgia, thirty men enlisting from Savannah.

    June 11th, erection of church begun to-day.

    June 26th, first horse race in Georgia, "from gate of Public Garden, on present East Broad Street, to middle of Johnson Square, Dr. Tailfer and others bettors."

    1741.---March 30th, game of cricket played, and next day, rifle match, and raffle for horse at £12.

    In April, William Stephens appointed president of the County of Savannah.

    April 2d, second fire, destroying block from Bull to Drayton, and from Duke (now Congress) Street, south to lane.

    June 9th, second sale of slave in colony for 8£, 10s.

    In July, Oglethorpe with 652 men, defeated Spaniards with 5,090 men on St. Simons' Island.

    Porcelain clay discovered in or near Savannah by Mr. Duchet, and china cups made. Trustees gave him £50, to "encourage him in his enterprise."

    1743.---July 23d, Oglethorpe took final departure for England, leaving town in better condition than ever before, there being 353 houses here, exclusive of public buildings, William Stephens appointed Deputy General of the colony.

    1744.---First commercial house established by James Habersham and Charles Harris. Stood near water in rear of what is now 2 Bay, East. Further efforts made to carry out original idea concerning colony, and a filature, or silk house built and necessary articles for preparing cocoons, and winding silk directed to be furnished.

    1747.---Slavery in colony practically recognized. Negroes had first been hired from owners in South Carolina, then purchases were made from African traders. Some seizures were made, but magistrates were favorable to introduction of slaves, and decisions were suspended. Finally, the Trustees ordered convention of prominent inhabitants of colony, and twenty-three representatives met in Savannah, passed sundry resolutions practically legalizing the traffic, ordering that "the owners of slaves shall educate the young, and use every means to religiously impress the minds of the aged, and that all acts of inhumanity shall be punished by the civil authority."

    1749.---First ship sent to England, by Harris & Habersham, laden with deerskins, lumber, cattle, hogs, poultry, etc., to value of $10,000. Seven other ships sailed during the year. Determined effort made by Rev. Thomas Bosomworth, husband of Mary Musgrove, to secure control of all lands occupied by whites, and on July 20th, with large body of Indians, they approached the town. Much excitement prevailed. Militia, under Captain Noble Jones, met them and compelled them to ground their arms, after which they entered the town. Two days were occupied in discussion, and not until Bosomworth and Mary were gotten apart from the Indians, and confined, could any arrangement be made. Finally, the Indians were persuaded to leave town without bloodshed.

    1750.---Charter changed by Trustees, all restrictions respecting titles to land done away with, and a colonial assembly of sixteen members authorized.

    April 23d, St. George's Society organized, afterwards, in 1786, incorporated as Union Society.

    July 7th, first church in Savannah dedicated. Exports for year, $8,897.

    1751.---First General Assembly of Georgia met January 15th, representatives from Savannah District being Francis Harris, who was chosen Speaker, John Milledge, William Francis and William Russell. Colonel William Stephens resigned as President of Council in May, and was succeeded by Henry Parker.

    First general muster occurred June 13th, with 220 horse and foot in line. A colonial record says, "they behaved well, and made a pretty appearance."

    1752.---On June 23d, the Trustees resigned their charter, and the colony became a royal province.

    Henry Parker died in this year, and Patrick Graham became President of Council.

    1753.---Exports for the year, $74,785.

    1754.---August 6th, Captain John Reynolds appointed Governor of Province of Georgia, William Clifton, Attorney General, James Habersham, Secretary.

    October 29th, Governor Reynolds landed in Savannah, and on following day, dissolved former Board of Council, and announced formation of Royal Council.

    In December, courts established; first, a General Court, to be held quarterly; second, a Court of Chancery, to sit after each General Court; third, a Court of Oyer and Terminer, to sit twice a year. A Court of Admiralty was also established for maritime affairs.

    1755.---January 7th, first Legislature of Georgia assembled; David Douglass chosen Speaker.

    1756.---Complaints against the administration of Governor Reynolds, caused an order on August 3d, that he should "come to England to answer for his conduct," and Henry Ellis was appointed Lieutenant Governor.

    1757.---On February 16th, Governor Ellis reached Savannah, and landed amid "welcoming shouts from the assembled multitude," a prominent feature of the occasion being the parade of thirty school boys, organized as a military company.

    October 25th, a conference was held between the Governor and Council, and the head men of the Upper and Lower Creeks, representing twenty-one Indian towns, resulting in the establishment of renewed friendly relations.

    1758.---March 17th, colony divided into parishes, and "Town and District of Savannah," confirmed as rector of Christ Church. May 17, Ellis appointed Gover-in-Chief of colony.

    1759.---In November, Governor Ellis, owing to feeble health, solicited recall.

    In this year a fire engine was purchased, and 15 townsmen formed company to keep engine "in good repair and attend upon any accident of fire."

    1760.---May 13th, James Wright, commissioned Lieutenant Governor.

    Upon his arrival in Savannah in October, Governor Ellis severed official connection with Colony, October 13th, and sailed for England November 2d. First wharf erected this year, supposably between Bull and Whitaker Streets. Exportation of rice, 3,400 pounds, and entire commerce for year conducted by forty-two vessels.

    1761.---In February, news of the death on October 25th, 1760 of King George II., reached Savannah, and on February 9th, funeral honors were paid to his memory.

    February 10th, George III. proclaimed King, with much civil and military pomp.

    1762.---January 28th, announcement of Mr. Wright's appointment, as Captain General and Commander-in-Chief, arrived, and was made the occasion of a general holiday, closing with a ball at the Governor's house, present site of Telfair Academy.

    1763.---First printing press in Georgia arrived, and on April 7th, appeared first issue of the "Georgia Gazette."

    Exports for year, $193,395.

    1764.---Post Office established in Savannah, with Robert Bolton as Postmaster.

    James Habersham shipped eight bags of cotton to England, the first ever shipped from America. Custom House officials seized it at Liverpool, on the allegation that so much cotton could not have been grown in the American Colonies.

    1765.---March 23d, an act for granting and applying stamp duties and other duties," more familiarly known as the Stamp Act, received the assent of the King. The utmost opposition was aroused in all the Colonies, and nowhere more than in Savannah, where James Habersham wrote, "how must every inhabitant shudder at thought of the act taking place, which, according to my present apprehension, must inevitably ruin them."

    October 26th, anniversary of accession of King George III. to the throne, celebrated by general muster, and in evening, the Sons of Liberty, recently organized, paraded effigies of "obnoxious persons," and then burned them.

    December 5th, the "Speedwell" arrived with the stamps which were transferred to Fort Halifax.

    1766.---January 2d, the Governor was informed that Fort Halifax was to be attacked, over 200 "Liberty Boys" having assembled, and threatened to break open the fort, and destroy the stamp papers. Forty men were detailed for several days, to guard the papers, and later, they were removed, under protection of Captains Milledge and Powell, with fifty-four rangers, to Fort George on Cockspur Island.

    February 3d, doubting the security of the stamp papers, even at Fort George, the Governor had them conveyed on board the man-of-war Speedwell, which had brought them from England.

    February 22d, Stamp Act repealed.

    July 16th, General Assembly convened, and united with the Council in forwarding a grateful address to the King, "for the repeal of the late Act of the British Parliament, commonly called the American Stamp Act."

    November 19th, Governor Wright, addressing the Earl of Shelburne, tells a pleasing story of advancement and prosperity. He writes, "On Governor Ellis' departure from hence, November 2d, 1760, from the returns of the militia officers, and the best information I could get, the whole number of white people throughout the Province amounted only to 6,000, and I had afterward reason to think there were not so many; of which number there was about sixty men belonging to His Majesty's Independent Companies, two troops of rangers, consisting of five officers and seventy private men, and the foot militia amounted to 1,025; and now, by a very careful inquiry from every part of the Province, the white people amount to 9,900, or say 10,000, of which 1,800 are effective militia."

    "When I came, the return made me of negroes amounted to 3,578, but which I soon found greatly exceeded the real number then in the Province, and now, My Lord, we have at least 7,800."

    "In 1760, they reported as appears by the Custom House books, only 3,400 pounds of rice, and in 1765, though a short crop, 10,325 pounds. In 1761, we loaded only forty-two sail of sea vessels, and the last year we loaded 153, and on an average of much greater burden."

    1767.---Although the Stamp Act had been repealed, the "Quartering Act" for quartering troops on the Americans, was still in force, and when on January 16th, Captain Philips, commanding the Royal Americans, made requisition for barrack necessaries for his troops, the assembly promptly refused to comply. In punishment, General Gage withdrew all troops from the Province.

    1768.---Much discontent prevailed on account of "taxation without representation," encouraged by letters received from Northern Colonies, notably Massachusetts and Virginia. Resolutions being passed by the General Assembly, in December, ordering that the "Speaker of the House of Representatives of the Province of Massachusetts Bay, and the Speaker of the House of Burgesses in Virginia," be advised "that this House approves of the measures by them pursued, to obtain redress for our common grievances, etc." Governor Wright, on December 24th, dissolved the Assembly.

    1769.---September 16th, a meeting of the merchants and traders of Savannah, was held at the house of Alexander Creighton, at which it was resolved, "that any person or persons whatsoever, importing any of the articles subject to parliamentary duties, after having it in their power to prevent it, ought not only to be treated with contempt, but also as enemies of their country."

    September 19th, a larger meeting was held, with Hon. Jonathan Bryan, of the Governor's Council, in the chair, where resolutions of non-importation, were unanimously passed. For his participation in this meeting, Mr. Bryan was, by order of the King, removed from the Council.

    1770.---At the opening of the Assembly in 1770, Dr. Noble Wimberly Jones, one of the most pronounced advocates of liberty, was unanimously elected Speaker, but the Governor negatived his election, and sent the House back to make a new choice. This they refused, passing indignant resolutions, and on February 22d, the Governor dissolved the Assembly.

    During this year, Bethesda Orphan House was destroyed by lightning.

    1771.---July 10th, Governor Wright left Savannah on a visit to England, and James Habersham, President of Council, on July 13th, took the oath of office, and assumed the Gubernatorial duties during Governor Wright's absence.

    1772.---April 21st, the eighth General Assembly met, and at once elected Dr. Jones as Speaker. Pursuant to instructions from the King, Governor Habersham negatived the election. On a second ballot he was again elected, to be again rejected. A third ballot gave the same result, but upon his declining to serve, Archibald Bulloch was chosen, and accepted by Mr. Habersham. It was only upon inspecting the journal of the House the next day that the Governor learned that Dr. Jones had been the third time elected, and that the choice of Mr. Bulloch had only been in consequence of Jones declining to serve. He at once demanded the erasure of the record, and upon their resolute refusal, he ordered the Assembly dissolved.

    December 8th, Governor Wright was made a baronet.

    Exports to Great Britain from port of Savannah for this year, 68,688£, 10s. 2d. sterling. Imports from here, £76,322. One hundred and sixty-one vessels, of a tonnage of about 10,000 tons, were entered and cleared at the Custom House.

    1773.---Exports for year, $379,422.

    1774.---The passage by Parliament on March 31st, of the "Boston Port Bill," precluding all commerce with that city, aroused a spirit of indignation throughout all the Colonies, and on July 20th, a notice appeared in the "Georgia Gazette," stating that "the critical situation to which the British Provinces in America are likely to be reduced from the alarming and arbitrary imposition of the late act of Parliament respecting the town of Boston, as well as the acts that at present exist, tending to the raising of a perpetual revenue, without the consent of the people or their representatives," was extremely important, and "calculated to deprive American subjects of their constitutional rights and liberties." Hence, it was requested, "that all persons within the limits of this Province, do attend at the liberty pole at Tondee's Tavern (Broughton Street, northwest corner Whitaker) in Savannah, on Wednesday, the 27th inst., in order that the said matter may be taken under consideration, and such other constitutional measures pursued as may then appear most eligible."

    This was signed by Noble Wimberly Jones, Archibald Bulloch, John Houstoun and George Walton, and was promptly responded to by those within reach, but as many of the out parishes might not have had sufficient notice of the meeting, it was resolved, "that all further business be postponed until August 10th."

    The aspect of affairs was so threatening that the Governor issued a proclamation, "notifying that all such summons and calls by private persons, and all assemblings and meetings of the people, which may tend to raise fears and jealousies in the minds of His Majesty's subjects, under pretence of consulting together for redress of public grievances, are unconstitutional, illegal, and punishable by law."

    August 10th, the patriots, undaunted, met at the appointed time, and place, and passed unanimously a series of resolutions, denouncing the offensive acts of Parliament, and claiming the same "rights, privileges and immunities as their fellow subjects in Great Britain."

    Governor Wright's influence prevented Georgia from being represented in the First Continental Congress.

    1775.---January 18, upon invitation of Committee of Citizens of Christ Church Parish, a Provincial Congress met in Savannah, its purpose being to elect delegates to the Continental Congress, meeting at Philadelphia, May 10th, following. Through efforts of Governor Wright, but five of the twelve parishes sent deputies, and some of these under special instructions, which embarrassed action. Under these circumstances, the expedient was adopted of laying papers, resolutions, etc., before the Lower Assembly, which had been convened simultaneously with the Congress, but action on their part was thwarted by the Governor's adjournment of the body. The Congress then formed articles of association, differing in some important respects from the model proposed by the Continental Congress, and elected Noble Wimberly Jones, Archibald Bulloch and John Houstoun, delegates. They, however, declined to attend, but wrote the President of the Continental Congress on April 8th, saying they "could not consider themselves as representing the Province, since but five of the twelve parishes were represented," and they added, "with what face could we have appeared for a Province, whose inhabitants had refused to sacrifice the most trifling advantages to the public cause, and in whose behalf we did not think we could safely pledge ourselves for the execution of any one measure whatsoever."

    May 9th, meeting of General Assembly fixed for this date, but members refused to respond, and the Governor prorogued the Assembly until November 7th.

    May 10th, news of Battle of Lexington received.

    May 11th, Noble Wimberly Jones, Joseph Habersham, Edward Telfair and a few others, took from the King's magazine, about 600 pounds of powder. Governor Wright offered £150 reward for information as to the offenders, but, though well known, no one informed. Tradition asserts that part of this powder was sent to Boston, and used in the Battle of Bunker Hill.

    June 5. Various histories state that "on Monday, June 5th, 1775, the first liberty pole was erected in Georgia," yet the "Georgia Gazette" of July 20th, 1774, has a notice, "that all persons within the limits of this Province, do attend at the liberty pole in Savannah, on Wednesday, the 27th." A liberty pole was however undoubtedly raised on this day, and at the dinner immediately after, the first toast was "the King," the second "American Liberty."

    June 22d, another meeting was held, and a Council of safety appointed, composed of William Ewen, President; Seth John Cuthbert, Secretary; Joseph Habersham, Edward Telfair, William LeConte, Basil Cowper, Joseph Clay, George Walton, John Glen, Samuel Elbert, William Young, Elisha Butler, George Houstoun, John Smith, Francis H. Harris and John Morel.

    July 4th, the Provincial Congress of Georgia met at Tondee's Tavern, with Archibald Bulloch, President; George Walton, Secretary. The delegates from the town and district of Savannah were: Archibald Bulloch, Noble Wimberly Jones, Joseph Habersham, Jonathan Bryan, Ambrose Wright, William Young, John Glen, Samuel Elbert, John Houstoun, Oliver Bowen, John McCluer, Edward Telfair, Thomas Lee, George Houstoun, Joseph Reynolds, John Smith, William Ewen, John Martin, Dr. J. J. Zubly, William Bryan, Philip Box, Philip Allman, William O'Bryan, Joseph Clay, Seth John Cuthbert. After organization, they adjourned to the meeting house, where Dr. Zubly preached from St. James, ii, 12: "So speak ye, and so do, as they that shall be judged by the law of liberty."

    July 10th, a schooner, armed and commissioned by the Congress, captured, with the aid of forty South Carolinians, under Captains Barnwell and Joyner, in barges, a British armed schooner, commanded by Captain Maitland, and laden with 16,000 pounds of powder. Nine thousand pounds of this powder fell to Georgia, of which 5,000 pounds were sent to Philadelphia, at the request of the Continental Congress.

    The Georgia schooner was under command of Captain Bowen and Joseph Habersham, was the first commissioned American vessel, and this was the first capture of the Revolution.

    John Houstoun, Archibald Bulloch, Rev. Dr. J. J. Zubly, Lyman Hall and Noble Wimberly Jones elected delegates to the Continental Congress.

    Three members of the Royal Council, Noble Jones, James Habersham and Clement Martin, died during the Autumn of this year, and Governor Wright in a letter to the royal secretary, said: "There is hardly a shadow of Government remaining."

    December 1st, the Provincial Congress assumed control of all Courts of law, and thus even the shadow passed.

    1776.---January 7th, a battalion of Georgia troops, with eight companies, organized with Lachlan McIntosh, Colonel; Samuel Elbert, Lieutenant Colonel and Joseph Habersham, Major.

    January 12th, two men-of-war, and a transport, with troops under command of Majors Maitland and Grant, appeared of Tybee.

    January 18th, the Council of Safety resolved that the persons of His Excellency, Sir James Wright, and of John Mullryne, Josiah Tattnall and Anthony Stokes, be forthwith arrested and secured, and that all non-associates be forthwith disarmed except those who will give their parole assuring that they will not aid, assist or comfort any of the persons on board His Majesty's ships of war, or take up arms against America in the present unhappy dispute."

    Major Joseph Habersham volunteered to secure the Governor, and proceeding to his house, passing the sentinel, he entered the Council Chamber, and walking to the head of the table, laid his hand upon his shoulder, and exclaimed: "Sir James, you are my prisoner!"

    The Council fled precipitately, while the Governor gave his parole not to leave the town, or communicate with the ships.

    February 11th, Governor Wright broke his parole, fled to Mullryne's residence at Bonaventure, and thence, in an open boat, was conveyed to the Scarborough.

    February 13th, Governor Wright addressed a letter to his Council, to be laid before the Provincial Congress, offering as he wrote, "in the King's name to the people of Georgia, the olive branch," and requesting for the vessels a supply of fresh provisions. The olive branch was declined, and provisions refused.

    February 28th, with a view to capturing the eleven rice laden ships at the Savannah wharves, the British vessels came up the river, and anchored at five fathoms. These vessels were the Scarborough, 20 guns; Tamer, 16 guns; Cherokee, 10 guns; Hinchenbrooke, 8 guns, with two transports, one mounting 16 guns.

    March 2d, two vessels went up Back River, and one, the Hinchenbrooke, grounded at west end of Hutchinson Island, while about 300 troops marched across the island during the night, and by collusion with captains, took possession of the rice ships.

    March 3d revealed to the Americans the proximity of the naval force, and two companies of riflemen, under Major Habersham, opened fire upon the stranded vessel, clearing her decks, but for lack of boats, were unable to capture her. Information that the rice ships were in hands of enemy, and that Captain Rice and crew, detailed to dismantle the vessels, were prisoners, was received later, when Colonel McIntosh, with 300 men, marched to Yamacraw Bluff, threw up hasty breastwork, probably on present site of Montgomery and Williamson Streets, and mounted three four-pounders thereon. Lieutenant Daniel Roberts and Mr. Raymond Demere were sent under flag of truce, to demand release of Rice, and were themselves arrested. Demand being then made from shore for the release of the prisoners, and insulting replies returned, two shots from the four-pounders were fired at the vessels, when it was announced that if two other trustworthy men were sent, the British would treat with them. Captains James Screven and John Baker were then sent, who, upon arriving near the vessels, made their demand, and upon receiving an insulting response, Baker fired at the man making it. This brought a fusilade in return, under which Screven and Baker hastily retired, fortunately with only one man slightly wounded. The battery now opened fire, continuing it for four hours. In meantime, it was decided to fire the shipping. Captain Bowen, John Morel, Lieutenant James Jackson, Thomas Hamilton and James Bryan, volunteering for the work. The Inverness was ignited, and cable cut, when she drifted upon the Nelly, firing her. Officers and men upon the other vessels fled across the island, several being killed by the grapeshot from the intrenchments. Three vessels were destroyed, six dismantled, and two escaped to sea.

    March 6th, Roberts, Demere and Rice being detained as prisoners, the Council of Safety arrested all members of the Royal Council, still remaining in Savannah.

    March 27th, an exchange of prisoners was effected.

    August 8th, the Declaration of Independence was received in Savannah, and was read at the Assembly House, again in the public square, and still again at the liberty pole, before all the people. The first battalion of Georgia Continentals fired a national salute of thirteen volleys. After a public dinner, the Royal Government of Georgia was solemnly buried, while in the evening, bonfires and a general illumination express the public joy.

    October 5th, the first Continental Convention of Georgia met.

    1777.---February 5th, Constitution of Georgia as an independent State, promulgated.

    February 22d, Archibald Bulloch, President of Council, requested to "take upon himself the whole executive powers of Government, calling to his assistance not less than five persons of his own choosing, to consult and advise with on every urgent occasion when a sufficient number of Councillors cannot be convened to make a board."

    President Bulloch died only a few days after this date.

    March 4th, Button Gwinnett elected President of Council, and Commander-in-Chief.

    May 8th, first Legislature of Georgia as a State, convened and elected Noble W. Jones, Speaker, and Samuel Stirk, Secretary. John Adam Treutlen was elected Governor, with Benjamin Andrews, Jonathan Bryan, John Houstoun, Thomas Chisholm, William Holzendorf, John Fulton, John Jones, John Walton, William Few, Arthur Fort, John Coleman and William Peacock, members of the Executive Council.

    May 16th, duel occurred between Button Gwinnett and General Lachlan McIntosh, Gwinnett being the challenging party. Both wounded in the thigh, McIntosh dangerously, Gwinnett mortally.

    May 28, Button Gwinnett died.

    1778.---January 10th, John Houstoun elected Governor.

    April 21st, news reaches Savannah that the British under Provost, are en route for the Altamaha, with a view to the conquest of Georgia.

    General Howe, in command of Continental forces in Southern Department, had already, on April 6th, dispatched Colonel Elbert with two battalions of infantry, to reinforce Fort Howe, on that river. General Howe joined these forces with others on May 20th, and aimed to press the British back into Florida, and bring them to battle. From various causes the expedition resulted in total failure, and on July 14th, General Howe returned to Savannah, followed by the regiments of Colonels Elbert and White, the remaining troops being sent to different localities.

    November 19th, General Prevost again invades Georgia.

    November 24th, General Screven killed in fight near Midway Meeting House.

    December 6th, news received through a deserter that an expedition under Lieutenant Colonel Campbell, sailed from New York November 27th, to attack and capture Savannah, while at about the same time, General Howe received news that Prevost was marching upon Georgia from St. Augustine.

    December 23d, British squadron appeared off Tybee.

    December 27th, all the British vessels lying inside Tybee Bar.

    December 29th, at daybreak, enemy begun landing in front of Girardeau's plantation, about two miles, in a straight line, east of Savannah, and advanced along a narrow causeway toward Brewton's Hill, Captain Cameron and two highlanders of the advance company, being killed and five men wounded by Captain John C. Smith's Carolina company, who held this point. Overwhelming numbers soon compelled Smith's retreat to main line, which Howe had formed, running diagonally across Thunderbolt Road about where Dixon, Mitchell & Co's. lumber yard now is. Here 800 men, forming two brigades, were posted, Colonel Huger commanding the right and Colonel Elbert the left. The bridge across Lamar Creek (now Bilbo Canal) had been destroyed, and three hundred feet west, a trench had been dug, which soon filled with water from the marshes. Through the aid of a negro named Quanimo or Quash Dolly, a portion of the British force, following a path through the densely wooded swamp attained the American right rear, while the main body of their army manoeuvered in front. Sir James Baird, who commanded the flank movement, presently coming out upon the White Bluff Road, advanced northward, overwhelming Colonel Walton, who with 100 militia, was stationed at junction of White Bluff and Ogeechee Roads, about where Jasper Monument now stands. Turning, he fell upon the American right, while Colonel Campbell, with the main body, brought forward his artillery, which had been concealed behind the hill, opened a rapid fire upon the Americans, and advanced. Between two fires, the American could only retreat. Colonel Roberts, with the artillery, secured the causeway across Musgrove Creek on the Augusta Road, and covered the retreat of the right, which escaped in comparative safety. Colonel Elbert's command, the left, continued the fight until this avenue was closed to them, and then rushed through the town and rice fields near the river. Many were shot and bayonetted in the town. The tide was up, and the creek full, and thirty men were drowned in the attempt to swim across it. The American loss was 113 killed and drowned, and many wounded; thirty-eight officers and 415 men taken prisoners. The English loss was two Captains and five privates killed, one officer and eight privates wounded.

    The remnant of Howe's army retreated up the river, and crossed at Zubly's Ferry, into South Carolina, and Savannah, the Capital of Georgia, with all its stores and munitions of war, was again under British control. General Prevost established the headquarters of the British army in the house still standing at 24 Broughton, East.

    1779.---March 4th, Civil Government, under British rule, re-established in Georgia, with Lieutenant Colonel Prevost as Lieutenant Governor.

    July 14th, Governor Wright returned to Savannah.

    July 20th, he resumed the Gubernatorial office.

    September 3d, Count D'Estaing's fleet, twenty line of battle, two fifty-gun ships, and eleven frigates, appeared off Tybee Bar.

    September 7th, General Prevost orders all outposts to report at Savannah, lands cannon and ammunitions from ships, and proceeds to fortify the town for vigorous defense. Fifteen batteries and thirteen redoubts were constructed, and mounted with seventy-six guns.

    September 12th, D'Estaing lands 1,200 men at Beaulieu.

    September 15th, all D'Estaing's troops and artillery are on shore, and intrenching tools landed at Thunderbolt.

    September 16th, line of march taken up for Savannah, and at night troops camp at Greenwich, three miles from town. D'Estaing addressed demand to Prevost for surrender of Savannah, with which demand Prevost parleyed, and finally proposed cessation of hostilities for twenty-four hours, expecting to have Maitland's force of 800 men from Beaufort re-inforce his 1,700 by end of that time. D'Estaing suspect-

ed Prevost's motive, yet consented to the truce. General Lincoln had been rapidly hastening to unite with D'Estaing, and the two commanders met on evening of 16th. Lincoln, upon learning of D'Estaing's unseemly haste, was much displeased, and so expressed himself.

    September 17th, the lines of American and French armies were joined. Lincoln's force number 2,127, D'Estaing's about 4,000. Maitland, under cover of fog, joined Prevost at noon of this date, making total British force about 2,500. Upon his arrival, Prevost addressed a letter to D'Estaing, announcing the determination to defend the town, and hostilities would be renewed one hour before sun-down.

    September 18th, allied armies decide to besiege Savannah, and proceeded to land guns and mortars from fleet. Their line advanced to 1,200 yards from British line, the French on the right and Americans on the left.

    September 23d, ground broken by besiegers, and at night, trench opened and run to within 300 yards of British line.

    September 24th, Major Graham, with three companies, made a sortie upon this advanced post, but was driven back with loss of twenty-one killed and wounded. The French however, pressed too far in their pursuit, and lost over fifty men.

    September 27th, Major McArthur, with a detachment, made a sortie upon the French works, and quickly retired, when the French upon his right and the Americans on his left, came together, in the darkness, and several lives were lost.

    September 29th, General Lachlan McIntosh sent flag of truce to General Prevost, with a request that Mrs. McIntosh and family, and such other women and children as might choose, be permitted to leave the town, but the request was denied.

    October 2d, the French frigate La Truite, from the North Channel bombarded the eastern end of the city, but with little damage.

    October 3d, at midnight, a furious bombardment of the city begun, continuing until 2 A. M., but a French record says, with little damage, "many of the cannoneers being under the influence of rum."

    October 4th, bombardment renewed at 4 A. M., from fifty-three cannons, and a number of mortars, and maintained with little intermission through day and night. British works were but little affected, and few soldiers hurt, but houses were destroyed, and several women and children, also a few negroes killed.

    October 5th, bombardment continued. House of Mrs. Lloyd, near the church, destroyed by shell, and seven negroes killed.

    Mr. Laurie's house, on Broughton Street, struck and two women and children killed.

    October 6th, Prevost sent letter requesting permission to send women and children down the river, but in view of his former action, Lincoln and D'Estaing united in declining to grant the request.

    October 7th, "A very lively cannonade." Several houses burned and four men known to be killed.

    October 8th, "Feeble cannonade." Both sides preparing for the assault, which, it is now recognized, can alone win the town. Excellent plans of attack are arranged, but unfortunately, they are overheard, or by some means obtained by James Curry, sergeant major of the Charleston Grenadiers, who deserts at night, and conveys them to the enemy. It is pleasant to read that this scoundrel was afterward captured, and hung for his treachery.

    October 9th, the Battle of Savannah was opened by Colonel Huger, upon the left. The exposure of the plan of battle enabled the British to concentrate their principal force at the real point of attack, the Spring Hill redoubt, situated near the site of the present Central Railroad Depot. D'Estaing advanced here, supported by Count Dillon and Colonel Laurens of South Carolina, and followed by Pulaski, with his cavalry. Grape, chain and canister, together with the

(This house formerly stood facing south, on site of present Trinity Church, and shot hole, still visible, was made by French or American artillery on last day of the siege, 1799.)

muskets of the British, mowed down the allies as grass. The colors of the Second South Carolina were planted on the top of the redoubt by Lieutenants Hume and Bush, but in an instant, both were killed. Lieutenant Grey, advancing to their support, was wounded, when Sergeant Jasper rushed forward, seized the colors, and though mortally wounded, bore them back to the line. D'Estaing, twice wounded, was borne from the field, and Pulaski, succeeding to the command, dashed forward to cheer the wavering troops. Penetrating the redoubt, a grapeshot from the last gun of the bastion struck him, and he fell mortally wounded. Dr. James Lynah of the Charleston troops, removed the ball, and he was conveyed on board the United State Brig Wasp, where gangrene set in, and "a few days later, he died, just as the brig got out of the river," and his body was consigned to the ocean. Further effort meaning but useless sacrifice, a retreat was ordered, which General Lincoln, with the reserve, covered. So closed one of the most sanguinary contests of the Revolution. The forces of the allies engaged numbered only about 4,000, yet their loss in killed and wounded, was more than 1,100. The British loss was about 100.

    October 10th, D'Estaing gave order to raise the siege.

    October 18th, the camp of the allies was broken up, the French moving to the right and the Americans to the left.

    October 21st, the embarkation of the French troops was completed.

    October 25th, Colonel Maitland, who had been second in command to General Prevost, died of fever.

    October 29th, Governor Wright proclaimed this a day of public Thanksgiving to Almighty God, for "His divine interposition," and "signal protection," displayed in the "late deliverance from the united efforts of rebellion and our natural enemies."

    1780.---May 5th, the Commons House of Assembly convened in Savannah, with fifteen of its twenty-six members present, and 151 citizens of Georgia were attainted of high treason, and their property confiscated to the Crown.

    July 10th, the Assembly prorogued to November 1st.

    September 25th, on account of siege of Augusta by Colonel Elijah Clarke of the American army, the General Assembly was convened, but accomplished little, and was adjourned November 15th, to be called together again briefly December 11th.

    1781.---June 5th, Colonel Thomas Brown surrendered Augusta to American forces under General Pickens and Lieutenant Colonel Lee. The way was thus opened for a movement on Savannah, and Governor Wright called loudly upon Lord Rawdon for aid to protect the town.

    1782.---January 4th, General St. Clair arrived in South Carolina, with troops from the North, and effected junction with General Greene.

    January 10th, General Greene detached General Wayne with Colonel White's Third Regiment of Dragoons, and a body of artillery to proceed to Georgia.

    January 12th, General Wayne crossed into Georgia at Sister's Ferry, and advanced to Ebenezer, to which point Governor Martin removed the seat of Government. The British garrison in Savannah, including 150 negroes, numbered a total of 1,800, under command of General Clarke.

    February 26th, Colonel James Jackson, with thirty troopers, drove in picket, and destroyed rice barn of Governor Wright, half a mile southeast of Savannah.

    May 28th, Governor Wright received letters from His Majesty's Secretary of State, enclosing copies of proceedings of Parliament February 27th, 1782, and His Majesty's answer, both of which looked to the establishment of peace between Great Britain and America.

    May 29th, the Governor enclosed these papers to General Wayne, and proposed a cessation of hostilities, which Wayne referred to General Greene.

    June 5th, negotiations opened looking to the evacuation of Savannah by the British.

    July 11th, British troops evacuated Savannah, embarking on ships in the river, and that evening Colonel James Jackson received the formal surrender of the town, and the American troops marched in and took possession. There were now left in Savannah 240 houses and 750 white inhabitants.

    July 28th, Governor Martin called a special session of the Legislature, which met in the house of General Lachlan McIntosh, now 110 Oglethorpe Avenue, East.

    July 31st, Committee, previously appointed, reported that they had purchased plantation of 840 acres, at cost of £3,900 for General Wayne, and Mulberry Grove, late property of Lieutenant Governor Grahame, with 2,171 acres, at cost of £7,097.19s, for General Greene.

    1783.---About January 5th, the Legislature met in regular session, and elected Dr. Lyman Hall, Governor. A few days later, General Greene visited the town.

    January 13th, Legislature voted a congratulatory address to General Greene.

    February 26th, resolutions passed by Legislature, urging that the churches be re-opened, and officers elected.

    October 9th, first theatrical performance in Savannah, of which any record exists. Tragedy of "The Fair Penitent," and farce entitled, "Medley of Lovers," given at the Filature for the benefit of the poor.

    1784.---January 9th, John Houstoun elected Governor.

    March 3d, Gala Day observed in Savannah in honor of the ratification of treaty of peace between United States and Great Britain.

    1785.---July, Samuel Elbert elected Governor.

    October, General Greene took up his residence in Georgia, at Mulberry Grove.

    1786.---January 9th, Edward Telfair elected Governor.

    Seat of Government changed to Augusta.

    February 6th, Masonic Grand Lodge incorporated.

    May 1st, Chatham Artillery organized with Edwin Lloyd as commander.

    June 19th, General Greene died from sunstroke.

    June 20th, funeral of General Greene, attended by "the whole population." Service for burial of the dead read by Hon. William Stephens.

    Exports for year, $321,377.

    1787.---February 19th, "Town of Savannah and hamlets thereof," divided into seven wards, six in town, Percival, Derby, Anson, Reynolds, Heathcote and Decker, Yamacraw making the seventh, or Oglethorpe Ward. A warden was to be elected from each ward, and they elected one of their member president.

    William Stephens was elected first President.

    1788.---February, Samuel Stirk elected President.

    March 13th, Jonathan Bryan died.

    June 24th, Bethesda rebuilt and opened as a college.

    November 1st, Ex-Governor Samuel Elbert, then sheriff of Chatham County, died, aged 48.

    Chatham Academy incorporated in this year.

    1789.---February, Samuel Stirk re-elected President.

    December 23d, Savannah incorporated as a city. Form of election continued same as before, but wardens became aldermen, who elected a Mayor in place of President.

    1790.---March 8th, first meeting of the City Council of Savannah, composed of Joseph Habersham, John Houstoun, Samuel Stirk, Edward Lloyd, Joseph Clay, Jr., Justus H. Sheuber and Mathew McAlister. John Houstoun was chosen as first Mayor.

    During this year St. Andrew's Society was formed.

    1791.---May 12th, President Washington arrived in Savannah, welcomed by Mayor Thomas Gibbons, and entire population; made headquarters at house on State Street, corner Barnard; destroyed in 1887, to give place to Odd Fellows' Building.

    May 13th, 14th, devoted to entertaining the President, inspecting British defenses, etc.

    May 15th, President Washington attended service at Christ Church, and later proceeded to Mulberry Grove, to visit the widow of General Greene.

    1792.---Joseph Habersham was chosen to the Mayoralty.

    1793.---March, Joseph Habersham appointed Postmaster General of the United States by President Washington.

    William Stephens succeeded Habersham as Mayor.

    James Jackson elected United States Senator.

    Cotton gin invented, and first one constructed by Eli Whitney at Mulberry Grove.

    1794.---The population within the limits was estimated this year at 2,500.

    Thomas Gibbons became Mayor for the second time.

    December 29th, the General Assembly authorized the formation of "Fire Company of the City of Savannah," the citizens having purchased two engines.

    1795.---William Stephens again chosen Mayor.

    James Jackson resigns as United States Senator, and returned to Georgia, with the avowed purpose of defeating what is known as the "Yazoo fraud." Elected as State Legislator from Chatham County.

    1796.---Mayor elected this year was John Y. Noel.

    February 13th, the bill known as the "Rescinding Act," introduced in the Legislature by James Jackson, and passed both Houses. This bill declared the sale of Yazoo lands by previous Legislature, "not binding, and authorized return of all moneys received for same."

    April 5th, Mayor's Court organized.

    October 21st, announcement made in Savannah, Advertiser of opening of "the new Theater," with a comedy called, "The Contrast."

    November 26th, fire started in bake house of Mr. Gromet, in Market Square, destroying nearly every house between Barnard and Abercorn, from Bay to Broughton, 229 houses being destroyed in four hours, and 400 families made homeless. Loss over $1,000,000.

    Georgia Hussars organized.

    Exports for year, $501,383.

    1797.---John Glenn filled the Mayoralty this year.

    1798.---In January, James Jackson was elected Governor. Population, 6,226, of which 237 were negroes; 618 dwellings.

    Matthew McAlister became Mayor, and was re-elected in 1799.

    1799.---The Exchange was built by a joint stock company, the city owning twenty-five shares.

    Masonic Hall erected on President Street, on site of present Whitfield Building.

    The Georgia Gazette suspended.

    In December, "while Washington was lying a corpse, at Mr. Vernon, Major John Habersham died."

    1800.---Thomas Gibbons, for the third time, became Mayor.

    Exports for year, $2,155,982.

    1801.---The Female Orphan Asylum, originally part of Union Society, separated from it, and became a distinct organization.

    1802.---January 1st, the Georgia Republican established by John F. Everett as a semi-weekly.

    May 20th, Aaron Burr visited city, remaining four days with Mrs. Montmollin, his niece, at house, still standing at 120 South Broad Street, West, (now Oglethorpe Avenue).

    Savannah Volunteer Guards organized and commanded by Captain John Cumming.

    1804.---September 8th, terrific storm, flooding Hutchinson Island, and drowning over 100 negroes. Several houses were blown down in the city, and many damaged. Vessels in the harbor were destroyed and many persons injured, three dying from the effect of injuries received.

    December 12th, Georgia Medical Society incorporated with Noble Wymberly Jones president.

    1805.---Fire damaged Bethesda Orphanage, and hurricane destroyed outbuildings.

    1807.---March 10th, the "Republican" became a triweekly, under the name of "The Republican and Savannah Evening Ledger."

    1808.---Republican Blues organized.

    December 23d, Bethesda sold by order of the Legislature, and proceeds divided, one-fifth to the Savannah Poorhouse and Hospital, and remainder equally between the Union Society and Chatham Academy.

    1810.---January 6th, a meeting called for the establishment of a public library.

    March 6th, Savannah Public Library organized. Census this year shows population, 5,195.

    1811.---The United States Bank building, now occupied by the Merchants' National Bank, erected.

    1812.---March 17th, Hibernian Society organized.

    June 25th, announcement of war with England reached Savannah. Immediate preparation made to fortify city.

    The city, having bought up stock from year to year, became full owners of the Exchange.

    1813.---January 1st, day of special thanksgiving for the "signal victories achieved by our naval forces."

    January 5th, Chatham Academy opened for the reception of pupils, 219 attending.

    June 2d, a meeting of citizens resolved to raise by assessment $40,000, for the purpose of "effectually defending the city against attack of the enemy."

    July 29th, "Committee of Vigilance" appointed, "to carry into effect the act of Assembly against idle and disorderly persons having no visible estate or lawful employment."

    August 1st, Finance Committee of Council reported receipts for fiscal year from all sources, $26,165, expenditures, $26,160; balance in treasury, $5.

    1814.---May----, British brig of war Epervier, 18 guns, captured by United States sloop of war, Peacock, brought into river. Had on board when captured, $110,000 in specie.

    December 8th, Committee of Vigilance discharged, Brigadier General Floyd, with considerable military force, having arrived.

    1815.---January 21st, Vigilance Committee reappointed, and Commodore Campbell requested to obstruct river with sunken vessels.

    This action was not taken, however, as the news of Jackson's victory at New Orleans, received a few days later, gave evidence of speedy close of the war.

    February 28th, President's proclamation of peace received.

    1816.---Savannah Free School established.

    1817.---January 13th, corner stone of Independent Presbyterian Church laid.

    October 17th, "Republican and Ledger" became a daily during fall and winter months, and tri-weekly balance of year.

    1818.---February 10th, a job printing office established in connection with the Republican and Ledger.

    February 28th, two lots deeded by city to Trustees of Savannah Theater, for the erection of a building.

    November 25th, the Savannah Georgian began publication.

    December 4th, Savannah Theater opened with the comedy of the "Soldier's Daughter," and farce of "Raising the Wind."

    Exports for year, $14,183,113; imports, $2,976,257. In summer of this year, ice was first shipped to Savannah, and sold at 6¼ cents per pound, being advertised as "highly desirable to cool water, milk and wine."

    At the suggestion of Captain Moses Rogers, a company of Savannah business men, with W. M. Scarborough at the head, had the first steamship built in the United States constructed North. She was named "Savannah" arrived here from New York.

    May 8th, President Monroe visited Savannah, remaining five days at the home of W. M. Scarborough, on West Broad Street, the building now occupied by the West Broad Colored School.

    May 9th, the Independent Presbyterian Church was dedicated, President Monroe and suite being present.

    May 12th, President Monroe and party, with the Mayor, city officials and invited guests, were given an excursion down the river on the new steamship "City of Savannah."

    May 20th, the "City of Savannah," sailed for Liverpool.

    November 20th, the "Savannah" returned from Europe, making trip across the ocean in twenty-five days.

    1820.---January 11th, a terrible fire burning 463 houses. With the exception of the Planters' Bank, Christ Church and three or four other brick buildings, every building north of Broughton Street, was destroyed. The fire continued from 1 A. M. Tuesday to 1 P. M. Wednesday. Loss $4,000,000. P. Brasch advertised "Bread Gratis to all persons burnt out, who have not means of purchasing."

    April 20th, corner stone of Synagogue laid on northeast corner of Liberty and Whitaker Streets.

    September 5th, vessel arrived from West Indies with yellow fever on board. In a few days the fever had gained foothold in the city.

    Late in October a census showed that of 7,523 inhabitants, but 1,494 had remained, and of these 239 were stricken.

    1821.---Exports were $6,032,862; imports, $865,146.

    1822.---January 1st, the Savannah Widows' Society organized.

    1825.---March 11th, Council authorized S. B. Parkman, R. R. Cuyler and 19 others to form a company "to be denominated the Savannah Fire Company." During the year 4 new hand engines, reels and hose were purchased.

    March 19th, Lafayette arrived in Savannah, accompanied by delegation from Charleston. Received by W. C. Daniell, Mayor, and welcomed upon landing by Governor Troup. He occupied rooms during his stay, at home of Mrs. Maxwell, where Governor Troup resided. The house,

now 124 Abercorn Street, appears much the same to-day as then, and is the property of Mrs. M. W. Thomas.

    March 21st, Lafayette laid corner stone of Greene Monument at present site, and that of Pulaski in Chippewa Square.

    March ----, Lafayette left Savannah for Augusta.

    1829.---March, John McPherson Berrien of Savannah, appointed Attorney General of the United States by President Jackson.

    December 4th, the Synagogue destroyed by fire, the seraphim and ark being saved.

    1830.---Phoenix Riflemen organized.

    Census gave population, 7,723, a gain of 200 in ten years.

    1831.---October, 10th, Mr. F. S. Fell, editor of Republican and Ledger since 1814, died.

    Erection of Fort Pulaski begun.

    Old Court House erected shortly before the Revolution, was torn down.

    1832.---December, the Georgia Infirmary incorporated.

    1833.---Brick and stucco Court House erected.

    Congress appropriated $30,000 for construction of army barracks.

    1835.---January, James Moore Wayne appointed associate justice of the United States Supreme Court.

    December 14th, Central Railroad and Banking Company chartered.

    Army Barracks, on site of present De Soto Hotel, completed.

    Savannah Poorhouse and Hospital incorporated. Building erected by private subscription in 1819, on site of pres-

ent Savannah Hospital, and used for several years as hospital for sailors.

    1836.---August 9th, Operations begun toward building the Central Railroad.

    1837.---March 4th, snow fell to depth of 8 to 10 inches, and sleigh rides were indulged in by Savannah people for the first time.

    1838.---February 26th, corner stone of Christ Church, as it now appears, laid.

    In May, sixty-seven miles of the Central Railroad were graded, and the road in running condition for twenty-six miles.

    A brick synagogue was erected upon site of the old one.

    1839.---April 1st, Church of St. John the Baptist, (now Catholic Library Hall), dedicated.

    June 4th, Georgia Historical Society was organized, and during year erected building now standing at 30 Bryan Street, East.

    Limits of city extended south from Liberty Street to Jones.

    1840.---July 6th, "Republican and Ledger" became a morning daily.

    Census exhibited population of 11,214.

    1842.---W. W. Gordon, projector of the Central Railroad died, and R. R. Cuyler elected president.

    1843.---February 22d, Irish Jasper Greens organized.

    October 13th, Central Railroad completed to Macon, and first train passed over the line.

    November 21st, Savannah Port Society organized.

    In the fall of this year the present Lutheran Church was dedicated.

    Value of real estate, $2,853,900.

    1844.---Value of real estate, $3,245,827.

    March, city visited by Henry Clay, who was a guest of Hon. J. M. Berrien at house, still standing on northwest corner of Broughton and Habersham Streets.

    John Millen elected to Congress, but died before taking his seat.

    Episcopal Orphans' Home founded by Bishop Stephen Elliott.

    1845.---June, Convent of St. Vincent de Paul completed.

    July 4th, observed as day of mourning for Andrew Jackson.

    December 19th, erection of new Episcopal Church of St. John's begun on south side of South Broad Street, (Oglethorpe Avenue), west of Barnard.

    Value of real estate, $3,279,988.

    1846.---February 22d, German Volunteers organized.

    March 26th, corner stone of Chatham County Jail laid at Hall and Whitaker Streets.

    Jasper Greens left for Mexico.

    Value of real estate, $3,306,734.

    1847.---May 25th, Daniel Webster visited city, remaining three days, being entertained at two public dinners, one given by citizens at the Pulaski, May 27th, the other at same place by the Savannah Bar, on May 28th.

    June, Georgia Historical Society and Savannah Public Library united. Occupied building now numbered 30 Bryan Street, East.

    Bonaventure, former home of John Mulryne, and later, through marriage in 1761, of Josiah Tattnall, to Mary, only child of Mulryne, the seat of the Tattnall family, purchased by Peter Wiltberger, and on December 27th, Evergreen Cemetery of Bonaventure incorporated.

    Fort Pulaski completed at cost of $1,000,000.

    Value of real estate, $3,462,073.

    1848.---March 18th, Colonel James S. McIntosh wounded September 8, 1847, at Molino del Rey, buried in Savannah with military honors.

    March 23d, first telegraphic dispatch received in Savannah.

    Value of real estate, $3,600,000.

    Census report gives population 7,250 white, 5,686 slaves, 637 free colored; total, 13,573.