Step back in time amid mossy oaks and ruins from Georgia’s founding at Wormsloe State Historic Site. Located just minutes from Savannah, this history-steeped property offers an evocative look at early colonial life and the state’s Noble Jones family. Stroll down the picturesque 1.5-mile-long live oak avenue, considered one of the most beautiful entrances in the South. Let Wormsloe delight you with its scenic beauty, intriguing ruins, and a glimpse into the past.
Location
Wormsloe lies only 9 miles south of Savannah’s historic district, making it an easy and scenic 15-minute drive. Take I-16 E to I-516 E before exiting at Skidaway Rd. The live oak entrance will greet you on the right after just 6 miles.
Details
Address: 7601 Skidaway Rd, Savannah, GA 31406
Phone: (912) 353-3023
Website: https://www.gastateparks.org/Wormsloe
History
In 1736, Georgia founder James Oglethorpe granted this land to Noble Jones, one of the colony’s earliest settlers. Jones built a fortified tabby manor home for his family that was occupied into the 1800s. The circa 1745 house and fort ruins remain within a massive 500-acre oak forest, offering a rare look at early colonial architecture.
After Jones’ death, the property was passed down through generations of his family, who expanded Wormsloe into a full working plantation through the Civil War era. They constructed elaborately ornate entrance gates topped by iconic iron figures around 1850.
Today, visitors can glimpse into this history by touring the manor ruins, strolling the estate’s scenic trails, and viewing artifacts at the museum. The sprawling oak alley, dripping with Spanish moss, provides one of the South’s most striking welcomes.
Key Historical Facts of Wormsloe State Historic Site
- Wormsloe was the colonial estate of Noble Jones, one of the original settlers of the Georgia colony in 1733. He arrived with James Oglethorpe on the ship Anne.
- The expansive grounds feature the picturesque 1.5-mile-long avenue of live oak trees, some of which are over 300 years old. This avenue leads to the ruins of Jones’ tabby brick house, built around 1739.
- Wormsloe Plantation operated as a rice and cotton plantation using enslaved labor during the 18th and 19th centuries. Enslaved Africans made the tabby bricks and built the house.
- During the Civil War, Wormsloe served as a camp for soldiers from both the Union and Confederacy at different points. Confederate General Lafayette McLaws headquartered troops here for coastal fortifications.
- In 1973, over 500 acres were donated to the state of Georgia by Jones’ descendants. Wormsloe became a state historic site open to the public, showcasing Georgia’s colonial history and natural beauty.
- The site has archaeological remains, including Native American shell mounds, remnants of slave cabins, and the fortifications built during the Civil War.
What to See and Do
Be sure to walk or drive the impressive 1.5-mile entrance down, with majestic live oaks shrouding the road. Stop at the wrought iron gates from 1850 to see the iconic decorative figures representing early life at Wormsloe.
The visitor’s center illuminates Wormsloe’s past through dioramas, artifacts like Ming porcelain, and exhibits on Jones family life and plantation operations. Kid-friendly displays let youngsters try on colonial costumes.
Take a short walk behind the center to explore the crumbling tabby ruins of the 18th-century fortified manor Jones built for his family. Informational plaques detail the remains and architecture.
Picnic amid mossy oaks or on the spacious grounds of the charming 19th-century stables. Nature lovers delight in wandering miles of peaceful wooded trails showcasing wildlife, trees, and marshes.
Don’t miss Wormsloe’s signature live history program, bringing figures from the past to life through interactive storytelling at the fort ruins and tabby manor house.
Top Attractions
- Walking or driving the 1.5-mile Live Oak Avenue entrance
- Exploring the ruins of the colonial Tabby fortress
- The museum displays the Jones family artifacts.
- Nature trails meandering through forest and marsh ecosystems.
- Interactive living history performances
Nearby Attractions
Downtown Savannah lies just 15 minutes north of Wormsloe. This walkable historic district entices with restaurants, shopping, museums housed in elegant mansions, and shady squares. The Savannah Visitor Center provides trip-planning tips.
Bonaventure Cemetery, don’t miss this grand, sprawling site, guaranteed to captivate with its mossy grave sites, sculptural monuments, and scenic waterfront setting.
Tybee Island lies 15 minutes south along the coast. It offers beaches, water activities, seaside eateries, charming rental cottages, and the Tybee Island Light Station and Museum.
Skidaway Island State Park sits 10 minutes west of Wormsloe. It provides picturesque camping, hiking trails, and access to pretty Skidaway Narrows.
Tips for Visiting
Wormsloe’s temperate climate welcomes visitors year-round. March-May and September-November see pleasant weather, with average temperatures around 70 °F.
Summers bring heat and humidity, with highs in the 80s-90s°F. Take advantage of shady trails or cool off at the visitor’s center. Thunderstorms may occur.
Dress warm for winter visits when highs reach the mild 50s-60s °F. Pack rain layers as needed. Some grounds or trails may have limited access.
Arrive early on weekends and holidays when crowds peak. Limited parking fills quickly. Consider carpooling.
Wear sturdy shoes for navigating forest trails that may get muddy. Bring water, snacks, hats, bug spray, and sunscreen for full days of exploring.
Leave bulky strollers behind since trails have stairs and uneven terrain. However, baby carriers and wraps work well.
Picnicking is allowed, but alcohol and smoking are prohibited. Take home all trash since cans are not available. Pets must remain leashed.
Conclusion
Wormsloe captivates visitors with its stunning entrance to scenic low country landscape, echoing back to colonial Georgia’s founding. Come hear those echoes amid ancient oaks, fallen tabby walls, and vivid living history. Let Wormsloe inspire you with the region’s rich stories and serenity.
Respectful Conduct
As a celebrated historic site, respectful behavior is appreciated to maintain the ambiance. Please refrain from loud noise or offensive language. Follow all park rules. Ask questions and discuss sensitive topics respectfully to foster positive dialogue. Treat all grounds and structures with care, so future generations can continue learning from this special place.
