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Home buyers with families and school-aged children often consider local school districts and their performance as one of the factors that can make or break a home. Here’s a brief lowdown on the local school districts in Coastal Georgia.

Bryan County Schools
Serves the communities of:Richmond Hill, Pembroke, Belfast, Fort Stewart, Blitchton, Black Creek (headquarters), Keller, and Ellabell
http://bryan.k12.ga.us

Bryan County Schools (also known as Bryan County School District) oversees eleven schools that serve Richmond Hill Township and the surrounding areas. It has a student population of approximately 8,200 students, according to education information website, Niche.com.

The best known school under Bryan County Schools is Richmond Hill High School, located in Richmond Hill, GA.

Effingham County Schools
Serves the communities of: Rincon, Guyton, and Springfield (headquarters)
http://effinghamschools.com

Ranked as one of the top 15% of well-performing school districts in Georgia, Effingham County Schools has created a learning environment that puts emphasis on data-informed decision making and research-based practices.

Effingham County Schools manages eight elementary schools, three middle schools, two high schools, and a college and career academy. Schools in the county include South Effingham High, Springfield Elementary, Marlow Elementary, Effingham County Middle, Ebenezer Middle, and Effingham County High.

Savannah-Chatham County Public School System
Serves the communities of: city of Savannah and the rest of Chatham County
http://sccpss.com

Run by a Board of Election, the Savannah-Chatham County Public School System (SCCPSS) supervises most of the schools in Chatham County, including those within the Savannah, its county seat and largest county. SCCPSS oversees over 40 schools including two satellite facilities, an adult learning center, and two alternative schools for middle and high school students. To date, SCCPSS serves more than 34,000 students.

Some of SCCPSS’s elementary schools:

• Bloomingdale Elementary
• J.G. Smith Elementary
• Garden City Elementary
• Port Wentworth Elementary
• White Bluff Elementary
• Spencer Elementary
• Howard Elementary
• Pulaski Elementary
• Windsor Forest Elementary
• Tybee Maritime Academy

SCCPSS’s middle schools include the following:

• Mercer Middle School
• DeRenne Middle School
• West Chatham Middle School
• The STEM Academy at Bartlett
• Southwest Middle School
• Myers Middle School

SCCPSS also operates several high schools, including:

• Savannah Arts Academy
• Windsor Forest High School
• Woodville Tompkins High School
• Groves High School
• Liberal Studies at Sav. High
• Beach High School

SCCPSS has several specialty programs offered in different SCCPSS schools. For example, International Baccalaureate Primary Years are offered in Largo-Tibet Elementary and Marshpoint Elementary, while International Baccalaureate Middle Years are offered in Southwest Middle and Coastal Middle. Specialty programs offered in high school include Early College in Savannah Early College High School, Maritime Science and Logistics in Groves High, and International Baccalaureate Diploma in Windsor Forest High and Johnson High.

Liberty County School System
Serves the communities of: Fort Stewart, Hinesville, Midway, Allenhurst, Walthourville, Flemington, Riceboro, and Gumbranch
http://liberty.k12.ga.us

The last school district on our list is Liberty County School System, which oversees 15 schools scattered across Liberty County and the surrounding areas. Aside from promoting a love for learning among its student body, LCSS also aims to instill a good sense of citizenship and excellence.

Some of the schools under LCSS include:

• Bradwell Institute
• Snelson-Golden Middle School
• Button Gwinnett Elementary
• Lewis Frasier Middle School
• Liberty County High School
• Frank Long Elementary

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Savannah, GA is home to a number of world-class academic institutions where you or your loved ones can pursue their dreams. Let’s take a look at some of the best universities in the city.

Armstrong State University
11935 Abercorn St, Savannah, GA
[email protected]

A public university that’s part of the University System of Georgia, Armstrong State boasts a diverse student population of approximately 7,100 students. Prospective students have the option to choose among a wealth of academic programs, ranging from health sciences to liberal arts. Armstrong State’s campus is just the right size to accommodate over a thousand students and create a warm and tight community.

Speaking of the university campus, Armstrong State’s encompasses approximately 268 acres of land. Within its grounds, you’ll find several hub of student activities as well as student residential communities, admin offices, classroom buildings, and the university’s four colleges: Science and Technology, Education, Liberal Arts, and Health Professions.

For more information about Armstrong State, including admissions, campus tours, and list of academic programs, log on to http://armstrong.edu.

South University, Savannah
709 Mall Boulevard, Savannah, GA
[email protected]

South University has other campuses in the country, but the one in Savannah remains as their headquarters, as well the institution’s largest campus. Established in 1899, South University in Savannah offers an array of academic programs in many fields, including pharmacy, business administration, criminal justice, legal studies, and health professions.

Aside from undergraduate programs, this for-profit college also offers doctoral degree, master’s degree, and associate’s degree programs. The Savannah campus is also home to South University’s School of Pharmacy, School of Business, and School of Health Professions.

For more information about South University, Savannah, log on to https://www.southuniversity.edu/savannah.

Savannah State University
3219 College St, Savannah, GA
[email protected]

Founded in 1890, Savannah State University is known as the oldest public historical black university in Georgia, as well as the oldest institution of higher learning in Savannah. Situated in a 201-acre campus, this historic university serves as the stomping grounds of approximately 4,900 students enrolled in over 30 academic programs. Savannah State boasts a vibrant student life, as students are often involved in the university’s clubs, organizations, sororities, fraternities, as well as athletics.

Savannah State’s campus is a thing of beauty as well. Often considered one of the most beautiful campuses in Savannah, the university grounds are scattered with oak trees, expansive marches, and impressive architecture. It’s no wonder Savannah State is one of the top choices for higher learning in Georgia.

For more information about Savannah State, including its list of academic programs and admission process, log on to http://savannahstate.edu.

Savannah Technical College
5717 White Bluff Road, Savannah, GA

A technical college, Savannah Tech has several campuses in Georgia. Their Savannah campus, located on White Bluff Road, is the largest campus, however, offering comprehensive instructional programs in business and technology, allied health, public services, and industrial technology. Savannah Tech has a student population of over 4,500, all scattered in its campuses in Savannah, Effingham County, Liberty, Crossroads, and Fort Steward Army Education Center.

For any inquiries, contact Savannah Tech here.

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I’m sure you’re getting tired of people saying that Georgia is steep in history, but it is, and history played and will always play a vital role in our country.

For Civil War enthusiasts, Georgia is one treasure trove full of historic sites and impressive military forts. Some of the closest forts from Savannah are McAllister, Pulaski, Morris, and Jackson – four historic sites that are always worth your time.

Fort McAllister Historic State Park
Richmond Hill, GA

Opened in 1861 on the banks of the Ogeechee River, Fort McAllister is home to some of the best earthwork fortification done by the Confederacy. Within the historic state park, you’ll find barracks, palisades, cannons, and other articles of the Civil War. A museum is located within the grounds, where you can browse more artifacts and purchase a souvenir or two.

Fort McAllister is not only popular for its history. It’s a scenic state park often frequented by locals for great picnics and daytrips with friends and family. Camping within the grounds is also allowed, as the state park has over 60 campsites. Other park facilities include cabins, a boat ramp, a nature trail, and a fishing dock.

For more information, including admission fees and camping reservations, check out this page.

Fort Pulaski National Monument
Cockspur Island

Located 15 miles away from Savannah, Fort Pulaski’s completion was the product of several changes in management. When construction began in 1829, it was overseen by Major Samuel Babcock. When the fort was completed in 1845, Lieutenant Joseph K.F. Mansfield was already in charge.

Fort Pulaski was under Confederate control when it was seized from the State Militia in 1861. Tides turned eventually, and the fort fell to union hands and served as a prison for captured Confederate prisoners as well as a storage area.

Today, Fort Pulaski serves as a fine example of 19th century military architecture. For more information about operation hours, special events, and admission fees, log on to Fort Pulaski’s official website: https://www.nps.gov/fopu/index.htm.

Fort Morris Historic Site
Midway, GA

Found along the banks of Medway River, Fort Morris was an important military garrison used to defend the area against British military forces. It fell to the British in 1779, but the bulwark was used again as a defensive structure to keep the British at bay during the War of 1812. The earthwork used during those turbulent times can still be seen today by visitors.

Aside from its rich history, Fort Morris’s scenic location and vistas of Saint Catherines Sound has made it a popular attraction for locals and tourists alike. Birdwatchers also come by throughout the year to catch glimpses of great egrets, pileated woodpeckers, goldfinches, painted buntings, and other coastal bird species.

For visiting hours, tours, and admission fees, log on to http://gastateparks.org/FortMorris

Old Fort Jackson
Savannah, GA

Known as the oldest standing brick fortification in Georgia, this fort located along the Savannah River is a perfect ending to a day dedicated to visiting historic forts in the area. Named after James Jackson, Old Fort Jackson treats its visitors to weekend cannon firings and interactive programs from March through October. Some say one hour is enough to spend within the grounds, but if you’re an avid student of history, you’re welcome to stay until closing time.

For more information, log on to http://www.exploregeorgia.org/listing/3456-old-fort-jackson.

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We’re always talking about Savannah’s collection of well-preserved historic sites and cultural attractions, but how about a taste of local flavors through two of our most beloved pasttimes: shopping and eating? For the best local finds, be it clothing or wares from Savannah artisans, the City Market at W. Bryan St. is the place to experience Savannah’s shopping and dining scene.

An amalgam of shopping, dining, and art

Aside from its fantastic shopping opportunities, City Market is known for its great art and endless rows of cafes and restaurants. Quite perfect, if you ask me. You can experience the best of Savannah’s 21st century delights – all found in within four blocks of restored grain warehouses. Locals and travel experts say that if you truly want to get to know Savannah’s art and soul, the City Market is where you should go.

Shops, restaurants, etc. you shouldn’t miss

Pie Society
19 Jefferson Street

Have you ever tried an authentic British pie? Lucky for you – you don’t need to hop on a plane and cross the pond to get a taste of some of Britain’s best loved treats. You can sample authentic British pies at Pie Society. An expansion of their Pooler establishment, the Pie Society at City Market offers original pie recipes such as chicken and thyme and the classic steak and kidney. Don’t miss out on their quiches, lasagnas, vegetarian pies, and desserts as well. Yum!

Savannah Candy Kitchen
318 West Saint Julian Street

If you’re looking for heaven on earth, Savannah Candy Kitchen might be it, especially if you’re a notorious sweet tooth! Comparatively less crowded and cozier than their branch on River Street, the Savannah Candy Kitchen at City Market offers all the goodies you can dream of. This is the best place to replenish your stash of peanut butter cups, candy apples, pralines, and more.

Wet Willie’s
20 Jefferson Street

Although you can find Wet Willie’s somewhere else, Savannah has embraced this establishment with open arms. A favorite among locals and tourists alike, Wet Willie’s offers an array of delectable drinks, from colorful and tasty daiquiris to the strongest vodka they can offer. Crowd favorites include Wet Willie’s Pina Colada, Monster Melon, Chocolate Thunder, and Call a Cab, but don’t hesitate to stray from these crowd pleasers and try something else. For kids, Wet Willie’s has virgin daiquiris to keep young ones entertained.

Vinnie Van Go Go’s
317 West Bryan Street

For some of the best Neapolitan pizzas in Savannah, you definitely have to drop by Vinnie Van Go Go’s. Pick your poison as you can choose your sauce of choice (options include white, traditional, and pesto) and your favorite toppings (like Italian sausage, anchovies, feta, and broccoli). You’ll definitely have a lot of fun creating your own pie. Just don’t forget to bring enough cash ($10-$20), as Vinnie Van Go Go’s only accepts cash.

There’s more to explore!

Savannah’s City Market is one place you shouldn’t miss. For more information about the City Market, including special events and more, log on to http://savannahcitymarket.com.

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Along Bull Street in Savannah, GA, you’ll find an imposing Italianate structure that’s been around for over a century. Once a private residence for one of Savannah’s most colorful and intriguing characters, the Mercer Williams House has been transformed into a museum – a favorite among architectural historians, history lovers, and even ghost hunters.

Here are a couple of reasons why the Mercer Williams House should be included in your itinerary.

1. It’s one of the most beautiful homes in all of Savannah, GA. Built in the mid-19th century, the Mercer Williams House definitely ranks among the most beautiful buildings in Savannah, GA. That’s something, because the city already has a collection of lovely and well-preserved historic homes to begin with.

   Built according to the tenets of the Italianate architectural style, the Mercer Williams House has been the site of many grand parties back in its heyday.

2. It was the home of Jim Williams, one of Savannah’s most interesting residents. The Mercer Williams House (originally called the Mercer House) was built for Hugh Weedon Mercer, a Confederate Army general. It’s not because of him, however, that makes the Mercer Williams House a curiosity.

   In the 1960s, antiquities dealer Jim Williams purchased the home and restored it to its glory. Said to be an eccentric fellow, Jim Williams gained notoriety after having shot Danny Hansford. It’s a rather bloody tale which later inspired the famous book, “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.

3. The Mercer Williams House is supposedly haunted.Having been the sight of a murder, it’s only natural for ghost stories about the Mercer Williams House to circulate. According to eye witness accounts, the specter of Jim Williams roams the halls of the building up to this day.Some say the ghost of Danny Hansford was also seen wandering inside the house.

   Another interesting ghost story is that of a young boy who supposedly fell off the roof of the Mercer Williams House while hunting pigeons. Some say his soul is still bound to the property, reenacting the fall that took his life.

   If you’re a fan of the paranormal, Savannah’s Ghost City Tours will take you around the city you can experience the historic area under the cover of darkness. For more information, visit their webpage: http://ghostcitytours.com.

4. The Mercer Williams House is home to a stunning collection of art and furniture dating back to the 18th and 19th century. If you’re not a fan of spine-chilling tales but do love some art and interior décor, the Mercer Williams House will suit you just fine. On display are some of the art and furniture that once belonged to Jim Williams. Aside from furniture and portraits, you’ll also get to see drawings from the 17th century, as well as a great collection of antique Chinese porcelain.

Plan your trip to the Mercer Williams House today

The Mercer Williams House is open to visitors Mondays through Sundays. For more information about operational hours and admission fees, log on to http://www.exploregeorgia.org/listing/4641-the-mercer-williams-house-museum.

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The inaugural Big River Film Festival will take place at the Savannah Civic Center this summer, from July 7 to 9, 2016.

Produced by Wonder Worthy Productions, the film festival offers access to some of the most creative independent artists today through film programming, master classes, live performances, and conversations. The goal of the festival is to give film professionals, independent artists, and students a platform to proudly showcase their talents in front of residents of the state of Georgia.

The Big River Film Festival will showcase more than a hundred features and short films crafted by some of the most promising independent filmmakers from different parts of the world.

The venue

The 2016 Big River Film Festival will take place at The Savannah Civic Center, with the 2,524-seat Johnny Mercer Theater serving as the festival’s main theater.

Workshops, talks, live performances, and other main events will take place at The Savannah Civic Center’s ballroom and promenade rooms.

Festival organizers are also pleased to announce that they have partnered with several hotels, which will be providing discounted rates for Big River patrons.

Guests attending the festival may book accommodations at:

• B Historic
• The Gastonian
• Embassy Suites
• Hampton Inn & Suites
• Holiday Inn Express
• Courtyard
• The Brice
• Hotel Indigo

2016 Official Selections and Categories

Below are some of the different films and categories showcased at the Big River Film Festival:

Special Screenings:

• My Brother’s Keeper (Georgia Film), Samone Norsworthy
• Ben & Ara (Georgia Film), Nnegest Likke

Short Film Live Action Competition:

• A Walk in Winter (USA), Ryan Moody
• Nkosi Coiffure (Belgium), Frederike Migom
• The Mother (USA), Paolo Monico
• Side (H)arm (USA, Georgia Film), Jeremy Oliver Miller
• Schmoolie the Deathwatcher (USA), Michael Ray Escamilla
• Farewell (USA, Georgia Film), Raymond Wood
• Beautiful Dreamer (USA), David Gaddie
• Muscle (USA), Heidi Marshall
• Jubilee Nurse (Ireland), Keith Farrell
• Flat Brim (USA), Tom Bentey
• Duende: The Red Shoes (USA), Tina Love 
• Texting: A Love Story (USA), Jeanette Buck
• Crayons (USA), Emma Pek

Student Live Action Short Competition:

• Blue Hour (USA, Georgia Film), Kody Cunningham
• Between Departures (USA), Emma Pek
• Eden (USA), Jacob Allinson
• Creation 101 (USA), Raine Bracken
• Mrs. Robinson and the Pool Boy, Darlien Morales
• Dance of the Elements (USA), Emily Croke
• The ReEnergizers (USA), Emily Croke
• Package Nanny (USA) Shea Lord
• The Rift (USA), Hernan S. Zulueta
• The Monsters Around Us (USA), Aileen Carpenter

Other categories:

• Short Documentary Competition
• Short Film Animation – International
• International Documentary Feature Competition
• Documentary Feature Competition – USA
• Feature Film Competition – USA
• Feature Film Competition International
• New Media Web Series
• Young Filmmakers Competition
• Film Screenings in High Regard (Not in competition)

Tickets

Those interested in going to the Big River Film Festival have the choice of getting the Friday One Day Pass, Saturday One Day Pass, Two Day Weekend Pass, and the VIP All Access Pass, which allows you to experience all of the events at the film festival.
For more information on the Big River Film Festival, visit www.bigriverfilmfestival.com.

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The Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series hits Savannah on November 5-6, 2016, bringing a fun-filled weekend of running and rock ‘n’ roll performances to the city.

Started in 1998, the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series began with a simple concept – a marathon with rock bands scattered throughout the course. The series has become one of the most popular running events in the country, with more and more runners participating each year.

Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon events today have evolved into a full-blown spectacle, complete with a wide variety of fun activities, including the world-class Health & Fitness Expo. The event is also known for hosting finish line concerts featuring today’s hottest music artists, with past performers that include The All-American Rejects, Flo-Rida, The Goo Goo Dolls, Lady Antebellum, Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, Pitbull, Train, and more.

Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon events are not simply about entertainment and excitement however – it’s about giving back as well. The event has raised over $310 million in donations for participating charities.

Event details

Runners in Savannah can choose from a variety of race events, including the marathon, half-marathon, two-person half marathon relay, 5K, and 1-mile.

Below is the complete event schedule:

• Thursday,November 3, 2016
  3pm to 7pm
  Health& Fitness Expo Day 1
• Friday,November 4, 2016
  3pm to 7pm
  Health& Fitness Expo Day 2
• Saturday,November 5, 2016
  7am to 3pm
  Rock‘n’ Roll Savannah Marathon
  HalfMarathon
  Two-personHalf Marathon Relay
• Sunday,November 6, 2016
  1pm to 3pm
  Rock‘n’ Roll Savannah 5K and 1-mile

Remix Challenge Medal

Runners participating in this year’s event can also get to take home a special 2016 Remix Challenge Medal. The guitar-shaped medal includes a guitar strap and a spinning pick, and is custom-painted specifically for the Savannah event.

In order to take home the 2016 Remix Challenge Medal, runners are required to complete one Saturday race event (marathon, half marathon, or half marathon relay, and one Sunday race event (5k or 1 mile)

Health & Fitness Expo

Included in the festivities of Rock ‘n’ Roll Savannah is the two-day Health & Fitness Expo, which will be held at the Savannah International Trade & Convention Center, two days before the races.

The expo will be the designated pick-up point for race kits, so runners can check out the latest in running technologies, interactive displays, fitness apparel, and health and nutrition booths. The expo is also free and open to the public.

Rocking while running

The hottest bands from Savannah will be playing music at different points of the course, performing tunes from different genres including blues, funk, punk, jazz, and classic rock.

Neighborhoods along the course will also have a designated “Spirit Station,” where participants can cheer on the runners as they make their way through the course. Cheer teams and dance squads from different schools in Savannah are invited to join the festivities, as cash prizes will be awarded to the top three most spirited neighborhoods!

To find out more about Rock ‘n’ Roll Savannah 2016, visit the official website here.

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The Savannah Film Festival is an annual event organized and presented by the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). The festival was created in hopes of making film industry talent and experience more accessible to students of SCAD and Savannah residents.

For over 20 years, the Savannah Film Festival has been one of Georgia’s esteemed film festivals. Every year, more than 40,000 people attend the eight-day film fest to experience the cinematic talent of both industry experts and talented student filmmakers. The festival continually seeks to ignite passion for the art of filmmaking by showcasing excellent works and expanding the boundaries of cinematic creativity.

The Savannah Film Festival also supports emerging independent filmmakers by waiving costly submission fees that are usually incurred when trying to get more exposure.

The 2016 Savannah Film Festival will take place from October 22 to 29.

Historical venues

Built in 1946, the Trustees Theater is one of downtown Savannah’s historic landmarks, and is a part of the SCAD campus since 1998. The beautifully restored theater serves as the premier venue for the Savannah Film Festival, with a capacity of more than 1,100 seats.

Situated around the venue is the Lucas Theatre for the Arts, the companion theater for the festival. Built in 1926, the theatre can accommodate a crowd of over 1,200.

Both theaters boast state-of-the-art equipment, with features that include Sony 4k digital projection, Spectral 240 silver screens for crystal clear 2D/3D imagery, RealD 3D capability, and 35mm projection. During the festival, top film projection teams from around the world are also invited to take part in the event.

Advanced studio releases

In addition to the featured competition films, the Savannah Film Festival also highlights the newest studio releases by screening them ahead of their official theatrical release. The festival honors the top names in the film industry by inviting renowned directors, producers, actors, screenwriters, entertainment journalists and editors, and more.

Previous festival honorees include well-known personalities such as:

• Alfie Allen
• Ellen Barkin
• Matt Bomer
• Matt Dillon
• Natalie Dormer
• Michael Douglas
• Roger Ebert
• Aaron Eckhart
• Geoffrey Fletcher
• Milos Foreman
• Ben Foster
• John Goodman
• Woody Harrelson
• Jeremy Irons
• Norm Jewison
• Diane Lane
• Stan Lee
• Ray Liotta
• Sidney Lumet
• James Marsden
• Sir Ian McKellen
• Liam Neeson
• Peter O’Toole
• Alexander Payne
• Arthur Penn
• Isabella Rossellini
• Gena Rowlands
• Meg Ryan
• John Sayles
• Oliver Stone
• Miles Teller
• Lily Tomlin
• Kathleen Turner
• Olivia Wilde

Paradise for film enthusiasts

Throughout the eight-day festival, film lovers can enjoy a wide array of different activities along with plenty of opportunities to take in the sights of the beautiful city of Savannah. Workshops, informal coffee talks, panel discussions, and screenings of narrative, animated, and feature films are scheduled throughout each day. Several industry insiders also host master classes and workshops that cover everything from special effects to marketing films.

To find out more about the Savannah Film Festival, visit the festival’s official site.

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If you’re in the Savannah Historic District, you’ll find it hard to miss the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. With its elegant Gothic Revival architecture and twin towers soaring to the skies, the Cathedral is one of the most visited attractions in Savannah. It is located within the equally popular Lafayette Square, and is one of the enduring testaments to Savannah’s rich culture and history.

History of the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist

The cathedral that you see today was the replacement for the original cathedral built in 1799 by French Catholic emigrants from Haiti. The first cathedral was torn down toward the end of the 19th century to make way for a larger edifice. The new cathedral was dedicated in 1876, and was fully completed in 1896 with the building of the two towers.

The Cathedral was nearly destroyed in a fire in 1898, from which only the two spires and the outside walls survived. Reconstruction was promptly done and was completed in 1900.

The Cathedral’s twin Gothic-styled spires are its most recognizable features. When you get closer to the church and tour the interiors, you will find even more stunning features that never fail to leave visitors awestruck.

The Great Rose Window

Typical of Gothic Revival-style churches, the Cathedral has a huge, 20-feet rose window that’s prominently visible from both the outside and the inside. The design features a central quatrefoil, a traditional Christian symbol characterized by four, equally-sized circles almost overlapping each other. Ten radiations surround the quatrefoil to achieve the rose design.

The quatrefoil’s stained glass filling features St. Cecilia, the patroness of music. The radiations depict singing angels playing musical instruments.

Stained glass windows

The Cathedral is decked with 81 brightly-colored and masterfully-created stained glass windows, depicting the story of Jesus and Mary in chronological order. Made by the Innsbruck Glassmakers in the Austrian Tyrol, they were installed only in 1904 as part of the Cathedral’s restoration after the fire.

Murals

The Cathedral boasts 34 murals, earning it the distinction, “The Sistine of the South.” Added in 1912, the murals were painted in oil on canvass by New York muralist Paul Gutsche, under the direction of Savannah artist, Christophe P.H. Murray. Two of the biggest and most prominent murals are the “Pentecost” and the “Sermon on the Mount.”

Pipe organ

The Cathedral’s Noack pipe organ was a recent addition, installed only in 1987. Nevertheless, its beautiful finish and excellent craftsmanship serve as an elegant framework for the Rose Window. Made in solid white oak with black walnut trims, the organ has 34 ranks and 2,308 pipes.

The steeple bell

The Cathedral’s steeple bell is not only majestic to look at, but also inspiring to hear. Weighing more than 4,700 pounds with a diameter of 59.5 inches, and hanging 96 feet above the ground, it can be heard for miles and easily seen from a distance. The bell was cast in Baltimore in 1900.

The main altar

The Cathedral’s beautiful, 9,000-pound main altar was made in Italy and was carved out of Carrar marble. It was donated to the Cathedral by the priests and the Bishop of the Diocese of Savannah. The front is inscribed with a Latin phrase that translates to “Blessed are they who are called to the banquet of the lamb”, which was taken from the Book of Revelations.

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Ossabaw Island is one of Georgia’s barrier islands located off the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, about 20 miles by water from the city of Savannah. It measures around 26,000 acres and is made up of tidal wetlands, maritime forests, and expansive beaches.

Ossabaw Island has been given heritage preserve status, which means that activities in the island and access to it are limited mainly to research, study and education purposes.

The island is co-managed by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Ossabaw Island Foundation (TOIF).

History of Ossabaw Island

Research indicates that humans had lived in the island as early as 4,000 years ago. From the time of the Spanish exploration in the 1500s to the English occupation in the 1700s, the island was occupied by Native American Indians, first by the Guale Indians, and then by the Creek Indians.

In the 1700s, the island fell into private ownership and was divided into four plantations. After the Civil War, ownership of the island passed on to different groups of owners, who used the island mostly for farming and hunting. It was purchased in 1924 by Dr. Henry Norton Torrey and his wife Nell Ford Torrey, who built a Spanish Mediterranean-style house on the north side.

In 1961, the Torreys’ daughter, Eleanor Torrey West, and her husband created The Ossabaw Foundation, aimed at preserving the island’s natural features. In 1978, they sold the island to the State of Georgia as a Heritage Preserve, retaining only a 24-acre life estate.

Environmental significance

Ossabaw Island’s significance lies in its unique ecosystems that sustain a rich variety of life forms. These ecosystems are divided into three categories:

• Beach and dune communities – with around 13 miles of beaches and dune communities, this ecosystem sustains a wide variety of marine-based and marine-dependent plants and animals, including loggerhead turtles, and migrant shorebirds and seabirds.
• Forest communities – Ossabaw Island’s upland maritime forest is composed of native hardwoods, particularly live oaks that dominate the area. Other thriving plant varieties include saw palmetto, fragrant wax myrtle and red cedar.
• Saltmarsh and estuary – these areas are the source of food and shelter for a wide variety of animals, including birds, fish, invertebrates and vertebrates. They also help protect the coasts from storms, and act as filters for coastal waters.

Historical and archeological significance

Ossabaw Island’s plantation era, as well as the hunting and timbering activities that went on in later years, had a negative impact on the island’s ecosystem. Today, remnants of those eras are the subject of archeological and historical studies in the island.

The few remaining historical structures here include:

• The Clubhouse, a pre-fabricated hunting lodge built in the 1880s, now used as lodging for guests and visitors
• The tabby "oyster house" – a one-story building next to the Clubhouse
• A frame barn
• Three tabby houses that housed slaves and tenants
• The Main House or the Torrey family villa – built by the Torreys in the 1920s

There are also about 230 archeological sites around the island, which had unearthed traces of pre-historic life, including ancient pottery shards and burial mounds.

How to explore Ossabaw Island

While its heritage preserve status limits access to the island, educational tours, academic research, writers’ and artists’ retreats, seasonal deer and feral hog hunting, and limited use of the beach are allowed.

You can access the beach during the day without any permission required. Several tour operators in Savannah and other parts of Georgia offer river cruises and day trips to the island.

Overnight or longer stays for educational, cultural or scientific purposes have to be approved by the Ossabaw Island Foundation. The Foundation also organizes overnight or longer trips that are open to the public. Seasonal hunts are run by the Department of Natural Resources.

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