Forsyth Park in Historic District in Savannah, GA
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Forsyth Park
Savannah, GA 31401
Forsyth Park is the largest park in the historic district of Savannah Georgia. It was originally created in the 1840s on 10 acres of land. In 1851, the park was expanded and named for Georgia Governor John Forsyth. Mr. Forsyth also donated 20 acres of his land to increase the park to occupy 30 acres in the historic district of Savannah. The park is bordered by Gaston Street on the North, Drayton Street on the East, Park Avenue on the South and Whitaker Street on the West. Forsyth Park is located at the southern edge of the Historic District.
Forsyth Park is a hub of social interaction. There are people playing recreation sports, sun bathing, enjoying picnics, reading or just relaxing. On Saturdays there is a great Farmer’s Market.
Today Forsyth Park features walking paths, open areas, beautiful tree cover, a fragrance garden and Savannah's magnificent Confederate Monument.
Forsyth Fountain
The most popular feature of Forsyth Park is the large fountain that sits at the north end of Forsyth Park. The fountain was built and added to Forsyth Park in 1858. It resembles fountains in Paris and Peru. Every year on St. Patrick’s Day the city of Savannah dyes the water in the fountain green in celebration of Savannah's deep Irish heritage.
All around the Forsyth Park Fountain are benches. On any given day you can find many people, especially locals, lounging on the benches, relaxing, reading or taking in the scenery.
Confederate Monument
The Confederate Monument is one of the largest Confederate monuments and is located at the far end of Forsyth Park pass the fountain. This impressive monument honored local Civil War veterans as well as those who had lost their lives in the bloody conflict. The Confederate Monument was erected in Forsyth Park in 1879.
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Fragrance Garden
Just southwest of the fountain is the Fragrant Garden for the Blind. It was created by the Trustees Garden Club of Savannah and has been around since 1963, but has only recently been opened to the public A treat for the senses, the plant name plaques also feature Braille writing. The garden is open 9am to 2pm Monday through Friday.
Forsyth Park Playground
For children, there is a modern, well-equipped, fenced-in playground that will keep any child entertained for hours.
Forsyth Pavilion
Many activities and concerts are held at the Forsyth Pavilion.
Forsyth Cafe
Neighboring the Fragrant Garden is one of the park’s newest additions – the Forsyth Park Visitor’s Center, which was opened in 2009. The center consists of a stage, fountain and café. The stage, complete with a band shell, is the venue for many of Savannah’s public concerts and events. The café is great for a fresh sandwich or salad, coffee, tea or bottle of water.