Stumble on History

 

I hated history in school. Nothing about it excited me to learn about dead people, wars, and oppression. I was a math girl. Ask a student to go to the board to solve an equation, I was probably the first to raise their hand. So I don’t know when the shift came that history became interesting.

On my last day in Savannah, just like the other days, there were no real plans. I, of course, was going to find somewhere for breakfast, so before the crowds and church-goers, I had a lovely breakfast a B. Matthew’s. I found it weird that you could drink in the middle of the streets (legally) like Bourbon Street in NOLA, but you couldn’t order a mimosa on Sunday before noon. The Bible belt and their silly rules.

It was still early when I finished my breakfast, so I pondered when the trolleys started their tours. To my surprise and luck, the tours would start in 20 minutes. I found a trolley stop map online and noticed I was only parked two blocks from a stop so I caught the trolley shuttle, purchased the tour ticket online, and rode to the “headquarters” to start my tour. I didn’t elect for the hop off- hop on option because I wanted to hit I-95 before 1 PM, so I did the 90min tour.

There are about 14 stops along the way. They even had historical “figures” give some speeches too. Some of the stops would be an architect’s dream. The oldest theaters, churches, trees, etc all reside in Savannah. As I was riding the trolley, actually the whole trip, I kept forgetting I was in Savannah as it gave me the feel of Charleston, SC. The cities are close in proximity so I’m not surprised they share commonalities. However, so many stops reminded me of my Charleston tour. I read about the first African Baptist church being located in Savannah, it wasn’t along the tour stops but I found it on the map. After the trolley tour, I planned to circle back to take pictures. To my surprise, there was another treasure. In front of the church is a tribute to Haitian soldiers that came over to help fight in the war. Did you know Haitians fought over here? According to the statue inscription, during the American Revolution, the British tried to capture Savannah, but with the help of allies (Haitians included), they were able to fend them off. History some are never taught.

Haitian Monument in Franklin Square

First African Baptist Church on the corner of Bryan Street and Montgomery Street

Now that I’d seen the church, it was time to head back to the car. It was a Sunday or else I would’ve contacted the church for a tour, as those are offered during the week. As I’m heading back, I stumble upon, but not really because I looked it up, the famous Leopold’s Ice Cream Parlor. Unlike the day before, I had oodles of flavors to choose from, so I decided to try the Tutti Frutti. A rum-based ice cream, with candied fruit (the lady told me it was cherries, apples, and another fruit, she wasn’t completely sure) with roasted pecans. It’s probably one of the oldest flavors on the parlor’s menu. It was DELICIOUS!!!! I think I’m going to look into how much shipping is to have a pint or two in the freezer.

That wrapped up my trip. It was short and sweet. Do I have places I want to spend a little more time visiting on my next Savannah trip, yes! Do I have other restaurants I want to try on my next Savannah trip, yes! Do I want to experience it with someone….maybe…lol It really is a great solo or group vacation city.

As Savannah reminds me of two cities I don’t mind visiting over and over…Savannah, you’ve got a new fan and I’ll be back.