Savannah, Georgia - History (part 9 of 16)

In "The Life of Major General James Jackson," by Thomas U. P. Charlton, the statement is made (page 119 of the reprint by James F. Meegan) "like General Greene he [Gen. Anthony Wayne] was led to make Georgia his home. The precise time of his coming I have no means of fixing, but it was certainly later than the year 1787, for we find him in the last months of that year still a citizen of Pennsylvania, and serving as a delegate in her convention called to ratify the new Federal Constitution." Notwithstanding that assertion, the same author shows that General Wayne was residing at the plantation given him by the state of Georgia, near that of General Greene, in June, 1786, and that he witnessed the death of the latter as shown in the same volume, page 134, where Wayne's letter to Jackson is given in these words: "My dear Sir: - I have often wrote you, but never on so distressing an occasion. My dear friend General Greene is no more. He departed this morning, six o'clock A. M. He was great as a soldier, greater as a citizen, - immaculate as a friend. Ilis corpse will be at Major Pendleton's this night; the funeral from thence in the evening. The honors - the greatest honors of war are due his remains. You, as a soldier, will take the proper order on this melancholy affair. Pardon this scrawl, my feelings are but too much affected, because I have seen a great and good man die." If this is not conclusive evidence of the fact that General Wayne was living in Georgia on the 19th of June, 1786, when General Greene died, surely no one will deny that fact on learning that the Georgia Gazette, on Thursday, April 20, 1786, mentioned the drowning on the 17th of a white man, "groom to General Wayne."

By deeds dated April 1 and 2, 1791, Anthony Wayne transferred all of his property in Georgia, both real and personal, including a num- J)er of slaves, to John Penman.

As A Chartered Corporatiox

Regular Municipal Administration - Samuel Elbert and -Jonathan Bryan - Oldest Artillery Company in Georgia - Washington's Visit to Savannah - Washington's Account of His Southern Tour - Municipal Government Continued - Disastrous Fire of 1796 - Chatham Academy - The Georgia Hussars - The Old Exchange - Municipal Affairs, 1797-1802- - Visit of Aaron Burr - Terrific Storm of 1804 - Preparations for the War of 1812.

Having brought our readers to that point where Savannah was finally set free from the government which had been set up under Oglethorpe's administration and kept up as the capital of the British colony and province under its peculiar form, we will now relate the circumstances under which it became a city, governed like other cities by a regular municipal administration known as mayor and aldermen.

Not until more than three years after the treaty of Paris had been ratified by the congress of the United States did the legislature of Georgia take action in the matter of changing the old for the new plan, and on the 19th of February, 17S7, by an act it divided the town into seven wards, adding to the six already existing (Anson, Decker, Derby, Heathcote, Percival and Reynolds) another to be called Oglethorpe, and constituting the hamlets of Yamacraw and Ewensburg. The second section declared "that on the first Monday in March annually, and every year, the proprietors of lots or houses within the said wards, who shall be of the age of twenty-one years and upwards, shall meet at the court house of the said town, and under the direction of two or more magistrates proceed to ballot for a warden for each ward, who shall also be a proprietor of a house or lot within the limits of the town or hamlets as aforesaid; and the wardens so chosen, or a majority of them, shall meet on the Monday next following, and choose by ballot out of their own body a person to act as president of the board, and they shall also appoint a clerk and such other officers as may be deemed necessary to carry this act into execution." It is needless to say anything here about the other provisions of that act. Under its authority the town the said town of Savannah shall be hereafter known and called by the style and name of the City of Savannah; and that on the first Monday in March, one thousand seven hundred and ninety, and thereafter annually, the owner or ocupiers of any lot or house in the said City or hamlets shall, under the direction of any two or more justices in the said City elect an alderman for each ward mentioned in the said act [of Feb. 19, 1787] from among the said citizens generally, who shall, on the Monday following after the election of such aldermen, choose from their own body a mayor; and that from and after the election of said aldermen and mayor their style shall be the Mayor and Aldermen of the City of Savannah and the trustees thereof; and are hereby empowered to carry into execution the power intended by the said act [of Feb. 19, 1787], and shall be a body politic and corporate, to have and to use a common seal, with power to sue and to be sued, plead or be impleaded, and may require, have, hold and enjoy real and personal property for the use and benefits of the said city and hamlets.

"And be it further enacted, That so much of the said recited act as is repugnant to the principles of this act be, and the same is hereby repealed."

It is remarkable that the legislature was so late in granting a charter to the city of Savannah, when it is recalled that the matter had been previously considered. Indeed, as early as October 6, 1785, the grand jurors of the October term of the superior court of Chatham county, in their general presentments made this special presentment in that matter: "We present, as a grievance, that the town of Savannah is not incorporated, and most seriously ask for the attention of the Legislature to this very important matter. To show that we are pointed in presenting this as a grievance, we beg to offer, by way of observation, that the shattered and dirty situation of the town, and the neglected condition of our public buildings make the most unhappy impression on foreigners, and injure materially the credit and consequence of this country."

The impression seemed to have been made on the minds of some persons that Savannah was not to be considered a place designed to grow, on account of its unhealthy situation. A correspondent of the Georgia Gazette , to correct that impression, wrote thus to that journal in its columns of Thursday, June 14. 1787 : the healthiness of the lower part of the state of Georgia induced a citizen of Savannah to take the following account of the inhabitants now living in the town, and within ten miles thereof, being the first settlement of Georgia 54 years ago, wherein there is perhaps as great a proportion of aged persons as in any other country. There are now living 10 persons between 80 and 90 - 33 between 70 and 80 - 69 between 60 and 70 - 80 between 60 and 50; and, from the best information that can be had, the whole number of residents in the above district amounts to 2,290. It is well known that within the last two years several persons have died in Georgia from 90 to 100 years of age."

On the 1st of November, 1788, occurred the death of a man who, as a good citizen, faithful officer with a proud record of service well performed in both civil and military life, was highly esteemed by the people of Savannah and the state of Georgia. That man was Samuel Elbert. One of the two brigadier-generals in the continental line from Georgia, his conduct during the War of the Revolution honorable and fearless; as governor of the state from January 14. 1785, to January 9, 17S6, he was a chief executive of ability and sound judgment; and as sheriff of Chatham county in the discharge of the duties pertaining to said office at the time of his death, his record was clean and marked with the strictest integrity. Besides the last mentioned office he held at the last moment of his life the offices of major-general of the state militia and vice-president of the Georgia Society of the Cincinnati. His funeral was attended by the military of Savannah and the Cincinnati Society, together with the Masonic lodges. A funeral sermon was preached by the Rev. Air. Benjamin Lindsay, rector of Christ church, and minute guns were fired by the artillery. He was buried at Rae's Hall, about three miles above the city on the Savannah river.

Another venerable and most highly respected citizen died on the 9th of Alareh, 1788, of whom we have already given some words of praise, too feeble, however, to do one-half the honor due the memory of the man who shall now be mentioned. Let the following, therefore, taken from the Georgia Gazette of Thursday, Alareh 13, 1788, suffice at this time :

"On Sunday last died at his plantation near Savannah, in the 80th year of his age, the Hon. Jonathan Bryan, Esq., who had been for nearly 50 years an inhabitant of this State, during which time, both under the former and present governments, he filled several very important stations. The many virtues which this gentleman possessed, both of a social and private nature, will not readily be forgotten. Having at an early day removed into this State, he acquired an accurate and thorough knowledge of the country. This enabled him, and his benevolent heart always inclined him. to render that aid to new settlers that he may justly be styled one of the principal Founders and Fathers of Georgia. Zealous in the cause of Christianity, he considered modes of worship but as secondary, whilst a great first principle with him in all true religion was universal charity. Being in the late war taken pi'isouer. he was made to undergo a series of persecution and hardship scarcely to be paralleled, and never to be justified; but the strength of his constitution and the unshaken firmness of his mind, even at the advanced period of 70 years, rose superior to all difficulties and at length brought him to die in the arms of peace."

Turning backward just for the space of about two years, we will take this opportunity to mention briefly the facts connected with the organization of the oldest artillery company in the state of Georgia - a com- pany with a record that should be preserved reverentially and with pride. On the 1st of May, 1786, through the efforts of Edward Lloyd, an officer of the Revolution, the Chatham Artillery became a regularly officered and equipped military force, beginning its distinguished career which has lasted unbroken down to this day, with a parade as escort of honor on an occasion of the most solemn and imposing character. Before the close of two full months of its history, with its chief organizer in command, the corps made its first public appearance at the funeral of Maj.-Gen. Nathanael Greene on the 20th of June, 1786.

Under the terms of the charter the aldermen elected in 1790 were John Iloustouu, Joseph Habersham, Samuel Stirk, Matthew McAllister, Edward Lloyd, Joseph Clay, Jr., and Justus II. Scheuber. and they chose the first named as mayor. The following year, 1791. Mr. Scheuber was the only member of the board of aldermen who was re-elected, the others being Thomas Gibbons, who was the choice of the body for mayor, with associates Jacob AValdburgh, AA'm. Lewden, Richard Wayne, John Berrien and Joseph W elscher.

Early in this year Gen. George Washington, president of the United States, began his southern tour, reaching Savannah on the 12th of May, on which day, anticipating his arrival, the Georgia Gazette said: ''The President of the LTiited States, it is expected, will honor the city of Savannah with his presence this afternoon. A boat elegantly fitted out, set off' yesterday forenoon, having on board five of the principal gentlemen of this, place who are to receive him at Purysburgh, from whence he is to be rowed by nine captains of vessels, neatly dressed in blue silk jackets and round hats, with black ribbon, having the words 'Long Live the President' wrought in gold. The Mayor and Aldermen have requested the citizens to illuminate their houses, and every preparation is making to welcome this truly illustrious character to the metropolis of Georgia."

That morning he arrived at Purysburgh to which point he had been escorted by Gen. AVilliam Moultrie and others from Charleston. South Carolina. There a committee of citizens of Savannah met him and conducted him to this city by boat leaving Purysburgh between 10 and 11 o'clock. Nine American captains rowed the boat. Those men were Captains Putnam, Courter. Rice, Fisher. Huntington, Kershaw, Swain, Mclntire, and Morrison. Ten miles up the river a number of gentlemen in boats, accompanied with a band of music, met the party, the band playing "He Comes, the Hero Comes," in which song many voices united. AYe quote the following at this point:

"On his approach to the city, the concourse on the bluff, and the crowds which had pressed into the vessels, evinced the general joy which had been inspired by the visit of this most beloved of men, and the ardent desire of all ranks and conditions of people to be gratified by his presence. Upon arriving at the upper part of the harbor he was saluted from the wharves, and by the shipping, and particularly by the ship Thomas AVilson, Captain AVhite, which was beautifully decorated with tlie colors of various nations. At the foot of the stairs where the president landed, he was received by Colonel Gunn and General Jackson, who introduced him to the mayor and aldermen of the city. The artillery company saluted him with twenly-six discharges from their field pieces, and he was then conducted to a house prepared by the corporation for his accommodation, in St. James' Square, in the following order of procession :

"The following address by the Mayor and Aldermen was delivered: 'To the President of the United States - Sir: The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of Savannah, do unanimously concur in presenting their most affectionate congratulations to you on your arrival in this city. Impressed with a just sense of your great and eminent services to America, permit us, the representatives of the city, to assure you of the high opinion the citizens entertain of your elevated virtues.

" 'We respect you as one of the richest and most valuable blessings divine goodness has bestowed on the neople of these United States ; your presence is an evidence of the watchful care you have for every part of the extended empire over which you preside. If we can not. by external show, demonstrate that respect for you which is in the power of the more wealthy of our sister States to display, yet none estimate your merits higher than the people of Georgia. The historic page bears record of our sufferings in the late revolution, and the vestiges of war remain within view of our Capital, and although peace was, in 17S3, restored to America, yet Georgia continued to suffer under the destructive ravages of an Indian war, and it has been reserved for the efficacy of the present government to give peace to our State.

" 'May the blessings of the government long continue under your administration, and may it please the Great Ruler of Events, to grant you long residence on earth, and to length of days add the blessings of uninterrupted health, that the advantages of the present government may be permanently established.' "

To the foregoing address the president made the following response: "To the Mayor and Aldermen of the City of Savannah - Gentlemen: Your affectionate congratulations on my arrival in this city, and the very favorable sentiments you express towards me, are received with gratitude and thanks, with sincerity. Estimating favors by the cordiality with which they are bestowed, I confess, with real pleasure, my obligations to the corporation of Savannah, and I can never cease to entertain a grateful sense of their goodness.

" 'While the virtuous conduct of your citizens, whose patriotism braved all the hardships of the late war, engaged my esteem, the distress peculiar to the State of Georgia, after the peace, excited my deepest regret.

" 'It was with singular satisfaction I perceived that the efficacy of the general government could interpose effectual relief, and restore tranquility to so deserving a member of the Union. Your sentiments on this event are worthy of citizens, who, placing a due value on the blessings of peace, desire to maintain it on the immutable principles of justice and good faith.

At six o'clock in the afternoon the president and his suite by invitation of the mayor and aldermen dined with the latter at Brown's Coffee House, Gen. Anthony Wayne, president of the Society of the Cincinnati, also being an invited guest. Toasts were drunk and the Chatham Artillery fired three guns. The city was brilliantly illuminated. The next day the Cincinnati entertained Washington at the same place, and a ball was given in the evening in the long room of the filature where, at 8.30 Washington made his appearance and was introduced to ninetysix elegantly dressed ladies, "some of whom displayed infinite taste in the emblems and devices on their sashes and headdresses out of respect to this happy occasion." The Georgia Gazette said: "The room which had been lately handsomely fitted up and was well lighted, afforded the President and excellent opportunity of viewing the Fair Sex of our City and vicinity, and the Ladies the gratification of paying their respects to our Federal Chief. After a few Minuets were moved, and one Country Dance led down, the President and his Suit retired about 11 o'clock. At 12 o'clock the supper-room was opened, and the ladies partook of a repast, after which dances continued until 3 o'clock. The company retired with the happy satisfaction of having generally contributed towards the hilarity and gaiety of the evening."

On Saturday, Gen. Lachlan McIntosh, who had taken part in the siege of Savannah in October, 1779, took the president and others on a tour to inspect the lines made at that time by the British as well as the works of the Americans and their French allies in which Washington showed a deep interest.

" The Georgia Gazette furnishes the following information as to the remainder of the time spent by the president in Savannah: "In the afternoon the President honored the Citizens with his company at a dinner prepared for him under a beautiful arbor supported by three rows of pillars entirely covered with laurel and bay leaves so as to exhibit uniform green columns. The pillars were higher than the arbor, and ornamented above it by festoons, and connected below by arches covered in the same manner. The place on which it stood was judiciously chosen, presenting at once a view of the city and of the shipping in the harbor, with an extensive prospect of the river and rice lands both above and below the town. But the principal advantage which resulted from its situation and structure was the opportunity which it afforded to a great body of people to have a distinct and uninterrupted view of that object to which all eyes and hearts appeared to be attracted.

"A company of nearly 200 citizens and strangers dined under it. and the satisfaction which each one enjoyed in paying this personal tribute to the merit of a man who is, if possible, more beloved for his goodness than admired for his greatness, produced a degree of convivial and harmonious mirth rarely experienced. Every one beheld with delight, in the person of our President, the able General, the virtuous Patriot, the profound Politician - in a word, one of the most shining ornaments that ever dignified human nature.

"The Artillery Company dined under another arbor erected at a small distance, and received merited applause for the great dexterity which they displayed in firing at each toast. Their- fires were returned by Fort Wayne, and the ship Thomas AVilson which was moored opposite the arbor. Her decorations through the day, and illuminations at night, had a fine effect.

"The construction of the arbor and the manner in which the entertainment was provided and conducted did great honor to the gentlemen to whose direction the whole was committed.

"In the evening there was a handsome exhibition of fireworks, and the amusements of this day of joy and festivity were concluded by a concert.

"On Sunday morning the President attended Divine Service in Christ Church, and soon after set out on his way to Augusta. On taking his leave of the mayor and committee of the citizens he politely expressed his sense of the attention shown him by the Corporation and every denomination of people during his stay in Savannah. He was attended out of the city by a number of gentlemen, and escorted by a detachment of Augusta dragoons commanded by Maj. Ambrose Gordon. At the Spring Hill the President was received bv General Jackson, where the Artillery and Light Infantry Companies were drawn up, and was there saluted by 39 discharges from the field pieces, and 13 vollies of platoons. After which he proceeded to [Mulberry Grove, the seat of the late [Major- General Greene, where he dined, and then resumed his tour."

The account we have given of Washington's visit to Savannah, the only one he ever made, discloses the second service of very great importance rendered by the Chatham Artillery within the space of five years after the organization of the company, and the fact that a special toast was given in its honor by that great man who characterized it as "the present dexterous Corps of Artillery." He still further showed his appreciation of the services rendered by it on that notable occasion and his pleasant memories of the same by presenting it, shortly after his return, with two field pieces of bronze which had been captured at Yorktown ; and these guns are still held by the company which values them beyond anything that the- world can estimate by any conceivable pecuniary measurement.

The southern tour of General Washington began on Monday, the 21st of March, 1791, when he left Philadelphia, as he said "about 11 o'clock, to make a tour through the Southern States." He thus mentioned his approach to and experiences at Savannah: "Thursday, 12th [May], By five we set out from Judge Heyward's, and road to Purisburgh 22 miles to breakfast.

"At that place I was met by Messrs. Jones, Col. Habersham, Mr. Jno. Houston, Genl. McIntosh and Mr. Clay, a committee from the City of Savannah to conduct me thither. Boats also were ordered there by them for my accommodation; among which a handsome 8-oared barge rowed by 8 American Captains attended. In my way down the River I call upon Mrs. Green the Widow of the deceased Genl. Green, (at a place called Mulberry Grove) and asked her how she did. At this place (2 miles from Purisburgh) my horses and carriages were landed, and had 12 miles further by land to Savannah. The wind and tide being both against us, it was 6 o'clock before we reached the City where we were received under every demonstration that could be given of joy and respect. We were seven hours making the passage which is often performed in 4, tho' the computed distance is 25 miles - Illuminns at night.

"I was conducted by the Mayor and Wardens to a very good lodging which had been provided for the occasion, and partook of a good dinner by the Citizens at the Coffee Room. At Purisburgh I parted with Genl. Moultree. Friday 13th. Dined with the members of the Cincinnati at a public dinner given at the same place - and in the evening went to a dancing Assembly at which there was about 100 well dressed and handsome ladies. Saturday 14th. A little after 6 o'clock, in company with Genl. McIntosh, Genl. Wayne, the Major and many others (principal Gentlemen of the City,) I visited the City, and the attack and defense of it in the year 1779. under the combined forces of France and the United States, commanded by the Count d'Estaing and Genl. Lincoln. To form an opinion of the attack at this distance of time, and tiie change which has taken place in the appearance of the ground by the cutting away of the woods, &c., is hardly to be done with justice to the subject; especially as there is remaining scarcely any of the defences.

"Dined today with a. number of the Citizens (not less than 200) in an elegant Bower erected for the occasion on the Bank of the River below the Town. In the evening there was a tolerable good display of fireworks. Sunday, 15th. After morning Service, and receiving a number of visits from the most respectable ladies of the place (as was the case yesterday) I set out for Augusta, Escorted beyond the limits of the City by most of the Gentlemen in it. and dining at Mulberry Grove the seat of Airs. Green, - lodged at one Spencers - distant 15 miles."

In the honors shown the illustrious visitor the Society of the Cincinnati took a large part. At that time its officers were: President, Gen. Anthony Wayne; vice-president, Maj. William Pierce; secretary, Maj-

In 1792 Joseph Habersham succeeded Thomas Gibbons as mayor, and Messrs. Seheuber, Lewden, AVa Id burger, Berrien and Wayne were retained as aldermen while Joseph Clay, Jr., was chosen in the place of AVelscher. William Stephens became mayor in 1793. and John Cunningham, Andrew MeCrcdie and George Jones stepped into the places cf Seheuber, Waldburger and Wayne. Again in 1794 Thomas Gibbous took his seat as chief magistrate, and Messrs. Clay and McCredie retired in favor of George Throop and Ulrick Tobler. After a year of rest from the conduct of municipal affairs Win. Stephens took the head of government in 1795, during which year he had as fellow members of the board Messrs. John .Moore, Balthasar Schaffer, George Throop, James

Box Young, George Paries. Ulrick Tobler, Andrew McCredie, Richard Wayne and Thomas Gibbons. One of Savannah's noted lawyers became mayor in 1796, and he afterwards served the city as alderman several times and twice again as mayor. John Y. Noel was the man. and he had on his aldermanic board Ulrick Tobler, Richard Wayne, Thomas Gibbons, and John Moore, whose experience on former occasions aided them in their work, while Owen Owens, John Miller, John McCall and Thomas Norton were newly elected to office in that year 1796.

On the 26th of November of the last mentioned year a tire occurred in Savannah which was most disastrous in its effects. It is so well described in an editorial article in the Columbian Museum and Savannah Advertiser of the 29th, just three davs after, that we quote it here in

"On Saturday the 26th instant this City exhibited a scene of desolation and distress, probably more awfully calamitous than any previously experienced in America.

"Between six and seven o'clock in the evening a small Bakehouse belonging to a Mr. Gromet, in Market Square, was discovered to be on fire. The citizens, together with the officers and crews of the vessels in the harbor, were soon convened ; but, unfortunately, no immediate and decisive measures were adopted by which the tire could be stopped at its beginning. The fortunate escape from the destructive element which 'the City for many years past experienced had greatly lulled the vigilance of its inhabitants, and prevented suitable preparations for such a calamity.

"The season for two months previous to this incident had been dry; the night was cold, and a light breeze from N. N. W. was soon increased by the effect of the fire. The covering of the buildings being of wood, were, from the above circumstances, rendered highly combustible. Several of the adjoining houses were soon affected, and then almost instantly in flames. The wind now became strong, and whirled into the air, with agitated violence large flakes of burning shingles, boards and other light substances which, alighting at a distance, added confusion to the other terrors of the conflagration.

"The use of water was now rendered totally vain, its common extinguishing power seemed to be lost. Torrents of flames rolled from house to house with a destructive rapidity which bid defiance to all human control, and individual exertions were from this time principally pointed towards the securing of private property.

"The direction of the fire being now committed to the wind its ravages were abated only when, by its extending to the common, it found no further object wherewith to feed its fury.

"On the north side of Market Square, and thence in a southeasterly direction, the inhabitants were enabled, by favor of the wind, to save their houses and limit the conflagration. On the other hand, by the time it had extended on the Bay, nearly to Abercorn street, the prodigious quantity of heat already produced in the centre of the city began to draw in a current of air from the east, and enabled some of the most active inhabitants and seamen to save a few houses in that quarter, after having been in imminent danger.

"Between twelve and one the rage of the tire abated, and few other houses from this time took tire. The exhausted sufferers of both sexes had now to remain exposed to the inclemency of a cold frosty night, and to witness the distressing spectacle of their numerous dwellings, covered with smoke and flames, tumbling in ruins.

"Thus was the little City, soon after emerging from the ravages of a revolutionary war, and which had lately promised a considerable figure among the commercial cities of our sister States, almost destroyed in a single night. The number of houses (exclusive of other buildings) which are burned is said to be nearly three hundred, but of this (together with an estimate of property destroyed) a more particular statement than we can now furnish is expected shortly to be offered to the public. AVe can now only say that two-thirds of the city appears in ruins, in a direction from the corner of Alarket Square, along the Bay to Abercorn street, thence in a southeast direction, taking the whole centre of the city to the south and east commons, a few houses quite in the southeast part only excepted. 'Tis said that three or four white men and two or three negroes lost their lives in rendering assistance during the fire, and whether any more is not yet ascertained.

"During the conflagration on Saturday night last in four hours 229 houses, besides out-houses, &e., were burnt, amounting to One Million Dollars, exclusive of loose property. Three hundred and seventy-five chimneys are standing bare, and form a dismal appearance - one hundred and seventy-one houses only of the compact part of the city are standing - upwards of four hundred families are destitute of houses. Charities are solicited."

The people of Savannah and the surrounding territory had become impressed with the necessity for a building suitable for the education Of children farther advanced than those in the primary grade, and to that end a plan was inaugurated for the chartering of trustees for building and maintaining a schoolhouse to accommodate for a long time the children of Chatham county seeking an education from the infant class to the high school. The charter was obtained long before the building was erected, and we are in the dark as to what was done from 1788 to the opening of the new building called the Chatham Academy in 1813, outside of the negotiations between the trustees and the Union Society.

The legislature of Georgia, in session at Augusta, passed an act, dated February 1, 1788, incorporating Chatham Academy. The act is too long to be quoted in this place, but the original trustees named in it were John Honstoun, John Habersham, William Gibbons, Sr., William Stephens, Richard Wvlly, James Honstoun, Samuel Elbert, Seth John Cuthbert, and Joseph Clay, Jr. It is needless to give particulars in relation to the arrangement by which the property of the Bethesda Orphan House managed by the Union Society and the newly created board of trustees was used in common to erect the building, known always as Chatham Academy but used for a time jointly by the two corporations, but an act was passed on the 22nd of December, 1808, by the terms of which certain money was set aside for the use of the commissioners of the Chatham Academy, said commissioners being required to "support and educate at least five orphan children from its funds as- soon as they shall receive the property herein vested in said institution." We learn from a statement in the Republican and Savannah Evening Ledger of Tuesday, January 21. 1812. that: "At a meeting of the Union Society, Savannah, 6th January, 1812. it being represented to this Society that John Bolton, Esq., one of the building committee from the Academy of Chatham County, is now four thousand dollars in advance towards the erection of the joint building to be completed for the benefit of the two institutions, and that the workmen were now idle for the want of funds.

The same paper of December 12. 1812, contained a notice signed by' John Bolton, R. M. Stites and John Lawson, the first paragraph of which was in these words: "The undersigned committee of the trustees of the Chatham Academy' are happy to announce to their fellow citizens and the public that the academy will be opened in the elegant and convenient edifice, lately erected in this City, for the reception of pupils in the various branches of literature proposed to be taught in the institution, on the first Monday in January next." This was followed by' the announcement on Friday', January 1, 1813, in the same paper, of this invitation: "The ladies and citizens of Savannah in general are respectfully invited to attend at the academy on Tuesday', the 5th of January next, at 12 o'clock, at which time the building will be opened for the reception of scholars, and an appropriate address will be delivered on the occasion." The manuscript of that address by the Rev. Henry Kollock, I). D., pastor of the Independent Presbyterian church is still in the possession of the Board of Education of Chatham county. The trustees announced that they had "appointed as principal of the academy' Mr. Jared I). Fyler, a gentleman highly recommended, and well known as possessing every' qualification for that office, not only in extensive erudition but in experience as a skillful instructor."

About th is time the cavalry company known as the Georgia Hussars which has won for itself a reputation deservedly high and honorable was organized. There is considerable doubt concerning the precise time of its founding. Some persons hold to the belief that it is really much older, and that it formerly held another name, onl.v making a change for some special reason at a late day of its history, ft is certain that cavalry companies of various names had existed in the city, and it is not at all unlikely that such a change in name was actually made. It is also claimed that the Georgia Hussars began their history in the year 1785. Another statement is that they "were organized shortly after the War of 1812, by. the consolidation of the Chatham Hussars and the Chatham Light Dragoons, the latter of which was an organized command as early as 1781, and affiliated with the Chatham Artillery at the funeral of General Greene in 17S6. "

As the reader has been already informed the site of our present city hall was occupied by a building known as the Exchange long before the erection of the one known by the same name and used as a city hall from about 1801 until it was replaced a few years since by the present edifice. Perhaps no clearer account in as few words of the olden structure can be given than that contained in the annual report of Mayor Edward C. Anderson in 1866: "It may not be amiss in connection with the Mayor's report to replace upon record a brief history of this old landmark, as derived from the minutes of Council. Many of its archives have been lost in the occupancy of the city by the United States forces * * * The question of the erection of an exchange building was first agitated in 1798, and in the following year the foundation of the present structure known as the Exchange was laid. It was built by a joint stock Company, in which the city was a stockholder to the amount of twenty-five shares. The ground was leased to the Company for ninety-nine years. The estimated cost of erection was twenty thousand dollars the stock being divided into two hundred shares of one hundred dollars each. The subscription was limited to the inhabitants of Chatham County. In the year 1806 a committee of Council was appointed to purchase stock for the City, and they reported having bought eleven shares at one hundred and fifty-six dollars per share. The city continued to purchase at prices generally much above par until the year 1812, when it secured the entire balance of the stock in private hands at one hundred and fifty dollars per share. The purchase money was raised by the issue of certificates of stock at eight per cent ; redeemable in ten years. One year previous to this purchase the subject of erecting a new city hall was agitated in Council, and a Committee was appointed as a preliminary step to ascertain on what terms the City shares in the Exchange could be sold. At the time of the sale to the city the revenues of the company were $3,000, and had been as high as $1,000. The estimated revenue to accrue to the city was twenty-four hundred dollars per annum. From this brief history of the Exchange it appears that it was originally the property in part of certain citizens; that in 1812 it became public property and that the building which was the Exchange became the City Hall. It was a profitable property to the company which owned it. but the merchants ceased to use it as an Exchange long before it was sold to the City at the enormous profit of fifty per cent." of June, 1799.- as this account of the ceremonies attending it is from the records of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons. "The Grand Lodge convened in consequence of an invitation by the Mayor and Aldermen to lay the Corner Stone of the City Exchange. The members present were in procession, attended by the corporation, when the stone was placed in position in the usual Masonic form by Most Worshipful Grand Master Win. Stephens, aided by the Grand Wardens, and accompanied by the brethren; after which the Grand Master delivered an appropriate oration.

"The plan of the building provided that it be a 'brick and stone,' three stories high, with apartments for the different public offices, and otherwise calculated for a city exchange."

Savannah's Mayor in 1797 was John Glen, who became a member of the corporation then for the first and only time. He served from July 10 to July 9 of the following year, and the new members of council were George Anderson, John Glass, James Robertson, John Peter "Ward, and John Holland - Messrs. Gibbons, Young and Moore, of the former council holding over. Matthew McAllister was mayor in 1798, with Messrs. Robert Bolton, Wm. Hunter, Richard Dennis, Richard Wayne, Jr., and Henry Putnam as new members of the board, and John Y. Noel, Joseph Welscher and John Glass who had served before. In 1799 Thomas Gibbons became mayor for the third, but not successive time, with only three new aldermen Levi Sheftall. John Millen, and Samuel Lawrence - Messrs. Bolton, Dennis, Lewden, McCredie, Belcher, and McAllister being former aldermen. Again in 1800 Thomas Gibbons served as chief magistrate, and, as new members, he had in his council Messrs. J. G. Williamson. Wm. Taylor, Archibald Smith, and Edward Harden, the old being Levi Steftall. John Glass. Robert Bolton, Andrew McCredie and Richard Dennis. David B. Mitchell was chief magistrate in 1801, with Stephen Blount and James Johnston, Jr., serving for the first time, and Glass, Bolton, Noel, Dennis and Harden reseated. For the first time Chas. Harris was mayor in 1802, with all old members of council, except Steffins and Jones; Blount, Williamson, Sheftall. Edward Steffins. Glass. George Jones, Harden, and Welscher

The year 1802 was marked by the organizing of that military company, the Savannah Volunteer Guards, which has made an enviable history and has continued the history with nothing to mar its character for usefulness and readiness for duty at all times - a continuous line of patriotic activities with not a single item of record to its discredit.

It was in this year also that Aaron Burr, then vice president of the United States visited the city, and the guards assisted in honoring him. Learning of his contemplated arrival t lie city council appointed three of its board to select a place for him to lodge, and appropriated $250 for the purpose. The three aldermen were Messrs. Charles Harris, Richard Dennis, and Edward Harden. On Thursday, May 20th, the Georgia Gazette announced; "The Vice President of the United States is expected in town this day;" and the account of what was done was recorded in its next issue, the 27th. in this short statement. "On Thursday last the Vice President of the United States arrived here from Charleston. About six miles from town he was received, by a number of gentlemen and the troop of horse: on his approaching Spring Hill he was saluted by discharges of cannon from the artillery company [Chatham Artillery]; at Spring Hill the Chatham rangers and Savannah volunteer guards joined the troop, and escorted him to lodgings fitted up for him in the city 'where lie was again saluted by the artillery. On Monday he partook of an elegant dinner at the City Hall in company with a numerous and most acceptable assemblage of citizens. And on Tuesday forenoon he left the city on his return to the Northward, being saluted by guns of the revenue cutter on his departure." The Columbian Museum and Savannah Advertiser, however, considered the event one of sufficient importance to devote a large portion of its columns to it, as follows :

"On Thursday, the twentieth instant the Vice President of the United States was received on his way to this city by the Military and Civil Officers and several companies of volunteers, and was congratulated on his arrival by Charles Harris. Edward Harden, and Richard Dennis, Esqrs., a committee on behalf of the corporation, and by Win. B. Bulloch, James Houstoun and George M. Troup, Esqs., a committee on behalf of the citizens of Savannah. And on the Monday following a festival was given in honor of the Vice President by the citizens of this place. The brilliancy of the entertainment, the number and respectability of the Company, and the harmony which universally prevailed have never been exceeded, perhaps never equalled, on any former occasion. The following toasts were given :

"1. The United States of America, the retreat of toleration and of freedom. May they continue to afford an asylum to the virtuous of all nations.

"3. The Constitution of the United States, perpetuity to this illustrious example of a Government founded on the voluntary consent of the people.

"4. Thomas Jefferson, President of the United States. - -May his measures continue to meet the confidence of his friends and defeat the calumnies of his enemies.

"6. The officers presiding over the Federal departments of State. Their talents, industry, and vigilance eminently entitle them to the gratitude of the people.

"7. The support of the State Governments in all their rights as the Surest bulwark against anti-republican tendencies, and the preservation of the general government in its whole constitutional vigour as the sheet anchor of our peace at home and safety abroad.

"9. Our delegates to Congress. May their late zealous and patriotic exertions for their Country's good be justly esteemed and treasured up in the hearts of their constituents.

"11. May those who would wish to dissolve our union or to change its present republican form stand undisturbed as monuments of the safety with which error of opinion may be tolerated when reason is left free to combat it.

"13. The Militia. Army, and Navy of the United States. May they continue the prompt defenders of their country, under the control of the Civil Authorities.

"15. The memory of General Greene. Respect to the wisdom of those sages and the blood of those heroes who devoted themselves to the liberties of their country.

"16. The memory of General Oglethorpe whose arduous toils and struggles in the establishment of Georgia entitled him to our wannest gratitude.

"17. An unrestrained freedom of the press, and universal toleration of religion. - Where there is equal liberty, justice and truth will triumph over calumny and falsehood.

"Volunteer toasts. After the Vice President retired. - The Vice President of the United States. After General McIntosh retired. - General McIntosh. After General Jackson retired. - General Jackson. By Mr. Simon McIntosh. - The Governor of the State of New York. By Captain 0. Smith. - The Republicans of Georgia and South Carolina. By Major Harden. - The Memorable fourth of March, 1S01. After Mr. Telfair retired. - Mr. Telfair."

During his stay in Savannah Mr. Burr was domiciled in the home of Mr. Montmollin whose wife was a relative, on the north side of south Broad street [now Oglethorpe avenue] between Whitaker and Barnard. Charles Harris was again elected mayor in 1803, and his former associates aldermen Blount. Williamson, and Welscher were likewise honored by being returned as councilmen ; but Messrs. John H. Morel. Fingal T. Flyming, Geo. D. Sweet. George Woodruff and Solomon Shad were chosen as new members of the aldermanic board. The popularity of Judge John Y. Noel was shown in his being called to preside over council to succeed Mr. Harris in 1804, in which capacity he was associated with aldermen Adam Cope, Isaac Fell, Levi Sheftall, F. T. Flyming, G. D. Sweet, Win. Davies, Jos. 'Welscher. Solomon Shad, Geo. H. Davis and Edward L. Davis.

It was in this year that one of the worst storms ever known occurred. Beginning at about nine o'clock in the morning of the 8th of September, its fury lasted until after ten in the night, and its work of destruction was most serious. Besides the damage done in the city the whole of Hutchinson's island was under water, caused by the high tide, and the plantations with the rice crops on them were greatly damaged. More than a hundred negroes were drowned. The wharves along the liver front were flooded while the warehouses adjoining with their contents were almost ruined. Falling chimneys injured many persons, three of whom died, and the Exchange and Filature, courthouse and jail were badly battered and torn. At that time the Independent Pres- byterian church, moved from Market square to the southwest corner of Whitaker and President streets, suffered from the effects of the gale. Its steeple fell, and, in its fall, struck a house in which was a sick man, cutting off a part of the bed. but, strange to say, left the man uninjured. The bell was not broken but was used for a while in the new building erected in 1819 on its lot extending from Bull to Whitaker street on Oglethorpe avenue; but it was replaced with another bell in 1824.

For several years before the actual declaration of war between the United States and England in 1812 the country was in a state of unrest and the condition of affairs bore anything but a peaceful aspect. Air. Jefferson, President of the United States, in 1807, recommended an embargo and was supported in his view by the Republican party while the Federal party opposed it. In advocating the measure the President said that circumstances existed "showing the great and increasing dangers with which our vessels, our seamen and merchandise are threatened on the high seas and elsewhere, from the belligerent power of Europe, and it being of great importance to keep in safety these essential resources, I deem it my duty to recommend the subject to Congress," and a bill was introduced and passed in December to lay "an embargo on all ships and vessels in the ports and harbors of the United States." The organization of a military company in Savannah the following year. 1808, called the Republican Blues doubtless sprang from the desire of its supporters to aid the government in the war which everyone believed to be imminent. The company has ever since maintained its position as a permanent and reliable portion of the city's military force of which her inhabitants have always been justly proud. The spirit of the people in the alarming condition of the country at that time may be judged by the fact that a special meeting of council was held on the 9th of July, 1807, to discuss the pi'oposal to remove from the magazine thirteen casks of gun powder. A resolution was adopted that "it is expedient at the present alarming crisis that care be taken to prevent any powder from being removed from the magazine for improper purposes." and only a few days after a committee of citizens applied to council for a loan of powder "to meet any emergencies that may arise out of the present situation of our affairs with Great Britain." and, the matter having met with approval, economy was exercised in actually dispensing with the lighting of the streets at night for a whole month in order to supply the amount asked for. Other steps were taken which need not now be mentioned.

Thus we see that the time was ripe for the raising of volunteer companies to defend the city and countrv in case of a clash of arms between the United States and Great Britain. All accounts of the rise of the Republican Blues hitherto published give the year 1808 as the time of its organization; but a thorough search for the facts has convinced the present writer that, although steps in that direction may have been taken in the latter part of that year, the company was not placed on a. firm footing by being legally officered until early in the next year, and, in evidence of this statement he presents the following:

No reference to the subject is found in the newspapers of 180S, but on the 11th of February, 1809, being Saturday, this advertisement appeared in the Republican and Savannah Evening Ledger:

"The Election of Captain, Lieutenant and Ensign, to command the Republican Blues, which was to have taken place on Monday last, is postponed until MONDAY NEXT, the 12th instant, when said Election will be held at the Court House, at 11 o 'clock precisely.

But even at the time appointed, which appears to have been the second time, no election was held ; for another notice appeared in the same paper of Tuesday, February 14th, in this form:

"An Election will be held at the Court House on FRIDAY the 24th inst., for a Captain, Lieutenant and Ensign, to command the Republican Blues. The poll will be opened at 11 o'clock a. m.

Organized, as seems probable, for service in the event that war between this country and England should be declared, the company stood ready for duty, and its action was just what it engaged to do in the events which soon followed.

The Avar Of 1812

Fort AVayne - Local Militia Ready to Act - Strengthening the Fort AVayne AVorks - Celebrating the Warrington and Porter Xayal ATctories - ATgorous Preparations for Resisting British Attack - The "Martello Tower." - Celebrating the Battle of Xew Orleans - Peace Declared.

AVar being deemed inevitable, the citizens of Savannah, as always, stood by the government and determined that the city should be loyal in every respect. In proof of this, we give in full a resolution, offered by Alderman Charlton, May 22, 1812. and unanimously adopted by council: 11 Whereas, it is at all times important that the government

"Resolved, That the citizens of Savannah be and they are hereby requested and invited to assemble at the Court house on Saturday, the 30th inst., at 12 o'clock for the purpose of taking into consideration the present situation of their country, of expressing their opinion thereon, and of adopting such other business as their patriotism may dictate." At the meeting resolutions of a most patriotic character were submitted and adopted and at an adjourned meeting, on the 3d of June, it was asserted that the country had grievances against both England and France which were sufficient to cause war, and calling for the seizure by the United States of East Florida.

The trustees of the colony of Georgia, it will be remembered, were honored in the laying out of Savannah by having a tract at the extreme northeastern portion of the bluff set off and known as the Trustees' Garden. On a portion of that tract a guard house was built, protected with a battery of cannon. This point was strongly fortified by the British during the siege by the allied troops, and when the city was evacuated in 1782, the fort there was named for Gen. Anthony AVayne. In consequence of the fact that for so long a time that spot was protected by some sort of fortification it has, together with the adjacent land been called "the fort." it is not at all unusual, when a dweller in that district (particularly one of the colored tribe) is asked where he lives, to get promptly the reply: "In the fort side," or "down in the fort."

On the 16th of January, 1756, a grant of "10 acres of land to the eastward of the town of Savannah" was, after approval of the governor and council, signed by the governor in favor of John Reynolds, lie being at that time himself the chief magistrate of the province; and, on the 5th of March following, he acquired, in the same way, title to lot Z in the city of Savannah, containing sixty by one hundred and eighty feet. It is not recorded when the trustees' garden was abandoned for the purpose of an orchard which seems to have been the use to which it was adapted, but there can be no question that the tract of land granted to Governor Reynolds was a part of that original garden, and included probably, the site of the old fortifications. An act passed April 24, 1760, named commissioners with full power "to construct and cause to be built a Fort to include the Magazine in the Town of Savannah of such form and space as to them shall be judged most convenient."

The exact date of the naming of the point Fort AVayne cannot be ascertained, but the first mention of it that this writer can find is in a preamble and resolution adopted by the House of Assembly, February 21, 1784, which are in these words: "Whereas, from the multiplicity of business it will not be practicable to pass a bill now before this House for establishing a Seamen's Hospital, therefore be it

"Resolved, that it shall be lawful for Gen. Samuel Elbert, Edward Telfair, James Habersham, Joseph Clay, Peter Bard. Seth John Cuthbert- and AVilliam O'Bryan, Esquires, and Air. Leonard Cecil, or any three of them, to remove the barracks from Fort AVayne to any part of the Common of Savannah which they may judge most proper and convenient for receiving sick seamen."

That the location of Fort AVayne was originally a portion of the trustees' garden cannot be doubted when the record now to be quoted is considered. On the 2nd of January, 1809, John C. Lueena and Miss Joanna Luc-ena granted to the United States, for a valuable consideration, "all that and those parts and parcels of land marked and designated and known as a copy of the plan thereof hereto annexed, all that piece of ground taken off a lot known by the number sixteen (16) seventyfive feet by one hundred and ten of all that piece of ground taken off of lot known by number seventeen (17) one hundred and seventy-five feet by one hundred and ten." and other pieces of land adjacent "originally part of ten acres of land called Trustees Garden, granted to John Reynolds." Later on, namely, on the 30th of January, 1810, Francis AVells sold and conveyed to the United States portions of a tract of land originally a portion of Trustees Garden; and on the 6th of March. 1810, Edwin II. Bolton sold to the said United States a certain piece of land "formerly Trustees' Garden" - all conveyed to the government, as stated in the deeds, for the "building of a fort, arsenal, or other public use. ' '

Foreseeing the probability of a clash of arms between England and this country, the United States had taken the precaution to look out for a place or places on which to build fortifications, and the deeds just mentioned were the outcome of that foresight ; but even before that time, in fact as early as 1808, the government made an effort to secure

'the land for such purpose in which the city of Savannah was interested. We learn that on the 17th of January of that year George Jones wrote v. letter to council in which he disclosed the fact that the secretary of war desired the city "to donate as a site for fortifications that part of the premises of the old fort and adjoining lots, including streets, together with the part of Reynolds street which extends from the old fort to the water's edge and a part of Wright Street.-' and that the city assented to the request. Of that transaction the Columbian Museum and Savannah "Advertise r of January 15th said: "We are informed that the City Council have made a cession to the United States of that part of the old Fort contained in Wright and Reynolds Streets to the water's edge, excepting such lots as have become private property ; which we understand the Hon. Judge Jones is authorized to purchase on account of the United States - the whole intended as a permanent site for fortifications; and we are happy to hear that the works will shortly commence."

On the 22nd of May, 1812, the city council of Savannah, at a regular meeting, " Resolved unanimously," as we have seen, to ask the citizens to hold a meeting and discuss public affairs, on Wednesday, the 3d of June, at twelve o'clock, when, among others, the following resolution was adopted: " Resolved, that the erection of works at Fort Wayne, adjoining Savannah, by the federal government, on the ground lately purchased by it. is highly and immediately necessary for the safety of the citizens and their families; and that our senator and representatives be requested earnestly to represent the same to the executive of the United States.

"Resolved, That these resolutions be published, and that copies be transmitted to the President of the United States, and our delegates in Congress."

No apology is deemed necessary for the insertion at this point of the following lines, in relation particularly to the then new company of Republican Blues and the older military corps of Savannah Volunteer Guards which appeared in t he Republican and Savannah Evening Ledger of Tuesday. June 16. 1812:

"Colonel Cuthbert. aid-de-camp to Governor [David B.] Mitchell, and commander of the Corps of Republican Blues of this city, arrived here last week in gun-boat No. 168. for the purpose of procuring one hundred men to proceed to East Florida.

"A call was made on the patriotism of the young men of this place, which was so promptly attended that the number of volunteers soon exceeded that required. The Republican Blues and Savannah Volunteer Guards were accepted for the service, and were shortly after encamped on the South-Common, where they remained until Friday forenoon, when they struck their tents, inarched to the bluff and embarked amidst a heavy fall of rain, accompanied by the best wishes of their fellow-citizens who had assembled in crowds on the shore for the purpose of taking leave.

Artillery and Chatham Rangers, who fired salutes on the occasion, which were returned by the gun boat. They went down the river on Saturday, and, we understand, proceeded to sea on Sunday morning.

"The youths of Savannah have done honor to themselves on this occasion. More volunteers offered than were authorized to.be received by general orders - none were accepted but from the Blues and Guards - the two other uniformed corps being deemed necessary to be left and assist in the protection of the city in case of danger.

"What is life without honor? What is dearer than the interest and admiration of one's fellow citizens?" The city council placed on record its hearty appi'oval of the action of those two military organizations in these words: "Whereas one of the greatest rewards that can be conferred upon patriotic citizen soldiers is the expression of the public approbation through the medium of the constituted authority, be it therefore resolved by the mayor and aldermen of the city of Savannah that the said volunteer company of Republican Blues and detachment of the Guards have deserved well of their fellow citizens at large and particularly of this city." The resolution was offered by Alderman T. U. P. Charlton, and Aldermen Charlton, James Bond Read and Archibald Stobo Bulloch composed a committee "to have inscribed and enrolled on parchment the names of the officers and privates, prefaced by these resolutions, to be framed and suspended in the city hall as a just and honorable tribute of respect conferred by this corporation upon the patriotism and valor of said volunteers."

Whatever may have been the response on the part of the United States government, to the request of the citizens in the matter of strengthening the works at Fort Wayne, it is certain that on the 19th of June, 1812, the city council appealed to the people in this behalf for such male slaves whose labor can be dispensed with with the understanding that the appeal was "to the patriotism of our fellow citizens" and that "the negroes furnished in the city will return to their owners to their meals, and those from the country will be furnished with provisions and lodgings." Of the funds collected for the work one thousand dollars given to begin the repairs was charged to the United States.

Fortunately Savannah was not a special object of spite or of ill-will on the part of the English forces, and her interests suffered little by the war. In response to the "War Message" of President Madison, sent to Congress on the 1st of June. 1812. the house, on the 4th, promptly passed a bill declaring war between Great Britain and the United States, which bill passed the senate with amendments on the 17th, the amendments were concurred in by the house on the 18th and were the same day signed by the president. The news of the declaration of war through special efforts of the mail contractor reached Savannah on the 24th, and Ala j. Gen. Thomas Pinckney of the southern division of the army, who had arrived in the city on the 22nd, with his aid Colonel Harris and had been received with honors including a salute by the Chatham Artillery and the Rangers, immediately left, having suggested plans for fortifying the place. The work was carried on by a committee of council composed of Aldermen J. B. Read, G. V. Proctor, and T. U. P. Charlton who inserted in the Georgian this advertisement:

" 'Whereas Major-General Thomas Pinckney lias determined to cause to be built immediately on the site of Fort Wayne such works as are deemed advisable, and adopt such other measures recommendatory of its enlargement as in his judgment may seem proper,

"And ivhcreas the Major-General has recommended to the City Council to direct their attention to the erection of such works on the South Common agreeably to a plan pointed out and explained as of great importance to the protection of the City;

" Resolved , That the Committee of Council appointed for the purpose of superintending the works intended to be erected in this City by the corporation and the citizens of Savannah thereby adopt the General's recommendation and now call upon the citizens to contribute their aid and furnish the laborers subscribed by them, to commence the works to be erected on the South Common which will be under the direction of Captain McRae as engineer."

Work on the fortifications was kept up for some time, and in a "Plan of the City and Harbour of Savannah in Chatham County and State of Georgia taken in 1818" by I. Stouf, on the 9th of April of that year, the "line of defense thrown up in 1814" is very distinctly shown.

A regiment, known as the First Regiment of Georgia militia, composed of the Savannah Volunteer Guards and the Republican Blues together with other Savannah companies, was organized and kept on duty at ail times. The Chatham Artillery and Chatham Rangers were other companies of the city not included in the infantry, that rendered all service necessary at the time. The regiment was regularly mustered into service under command of Lieut. James Johnston, but, as there was no actual fighting around Savannah the enlistment lasted not more than a month.

Of course the good people of Savannah took their own peculiar way of rejoicing whenever news was received of a victory or of any event showing the advantage of our cause over the British. The successes of Capts. Isaac Hull and Jacob Jones as well as of Commodore Decatur were marked by the designation by council of the 1st of January, 1813, as a time for the citizens to give "expression of their gratitude to the Supreme Being for the aforesaid signal victories and the high sense they entertain of the gallant conduct of the said naval commanders their officers and crews, and also for the general joy which these naval victories have produced upon our citizens."

"Whereas, another victory has added to the glory, the lustre, and renown of the American Navy, the Mayor and Aldermen of the city of Savannah are anxious on this, as they have been on other occasions of similar triumphs, to pay the tribute of respect to unparalleled skill and valor of the heroes of the ocean. Be it therefor unanimously resolved, that the mayor and aldermen of the city of Savannah do feel sincere gratitude and respect for the distinguished conduct and noble services of Captain Warrington, the gallant officers and crew in the late victory over the British sloop of war Epervier. "

Other victories met with the same spirit of congratulation, exultation and thankfulness. The people were not then, nor have they ever been, slow to show their appreciation of acts of bravery and patriotism, and the events of that war - a war which singularly touched Savannah gently and produced little disastrous effects - were as truly watched and made a part of the city's concern as though she was in the very midst of the greatest danger and suffering.

When the news of the victory of Captain Porter in the conflict of the Essex with the two British war ships Phoebe and Cherub reached Savannah, the mayor and aldermen, in council assembled, on the 22nd of July, 1814, made it a matter of so much cause for rejoicing that they let loose their feeling in the form following :

" Whereas, another great and brilliant exploit has bestowed on the skill, courage. Self Devotion and Patriotism of the hero Porter, his officers and crew, a splendour and glory never before acquired under similar circumstances and given a reputation to the American Navy which neither vaunts nor misrepresentations of the enemy can prevent carrying fear and terror to his thousand ships, and whereas this glorious achievement, united to the noble efforts of the illustrious Porter, his officers and crew, to promote the fame and the interest of their Country in their long perilous and unexampled cruise, demand not only heartful gratitude of every citizen of the Republic, but particularly of every public body and department of the Country: Be it therefore unanimously resolved by the Mayor and Aldermen of the city of Savannah that for and in behalf of themselves, and their Fellow Citizens of Savannah, they beg leave most respectfully to tender to Captain David Porter, late of the Essex Frigate, his officers and crew, this high opinion of his skill, Perseverance and Patriotism evinced throughout the long and perilous cruise of the Essex, as well as the sincere profound and unaffected gratitude with which they have been inspired by the great glorious and unexampled skill and heroism displayed by Captain Porter, the brave officers and gallant Seamen in the unequal contest of the Essex, with the British Frigate Phoebe and the Sloop of War Cherub."

At one time it was supposed that the enemy would actually attack the city, and special efforts were made to fortify all points considered weak, so that on the 2nd of September, 1814, a special meeting of council was held and all the citizens were urged to do all in their power to assist the city, their aid being especially invoked to help in throwing up breastworks. On the 14th the aldermen elected were John B. Norris, Isaac Fell, T. U. P. Charlton, Janies Bond Read, Robert Mackay, George Jones, J. Hersman, II. McIntosh, Edward Harden, Alexander S. Roe, .Matthew McAllister, Thomas Bourke, and William B. Bulloch. Those gentlemen were as active in their efforts to serve the people and their country as any set of men could be. The board was divided into special committees for certain work to look after. Messrs. McAllister, Read, Mackay, Hersman and Charlton were to co-operate with a committee of military officers. A committee called on citizens to subscribe to a fund for the city's defense, and General Pinckney was importuned to send an engineer to look after fortifications ; and the mayor was authorized to borrow $10,000. Messrs. Jones, Bourke. Mackay, Harden and Read composed the committee on defense, holding meetings every day. Planters were requested to send their negroes to work on the fortifications, and council called for action looking to the calling out of the Georgia militia, so "as to be efficiently prepared to resist and probably to avert the blow of the enemy," declaring that "all considerations of economy should be banished." Aldermen Roe, Charlton, and Norris were appointed as a committee whose duty it was "to guard against the introduction of suspicious characters into the city, and to have weekly returns from all taverns, lodging and boarding-house keepers of the numbers, names and business of such persons, and to act towards them as the law and ordinances direct, and they are required to aid in ascertaining the earliest information of the approach of the enemy by land or water and are empowered to appoint a secretary to record proceedings.

"Resolved, that the sum of five hundred dollars be and is hereby appropriated and put at the disposal of the committee for the public good."

Even the mayor and aldermen met at the Exchange on the morning of September 29, 1814, with spades, hoes and axes, to 'work on the fortifications.

Some time during the war the structure on Tybee island commonly known as the "Martello Tower," was erected by the United States government. The idea that it was an old Spanish work is entirely erroneous. If it was true, then surely some mention of it would have been made in the many accounts we have of that island during the time Oglethorpe was in Georgia and afterwards. No such edifice was named or described in any of them; and the fact of the matter is now given in order that all doubt in connection with the subject may be forever set aside. It was built sometime during the War of 1812-15 by the United States as some sort of a fortification, and Air. Isaiah Davenport was the contractor who supervised its erection. Mi*. Davenport was afterwards an aiderman of Savannah in the years 1818, 1819 and 1822.

thanks of the citizens of Savannah were returned to Gen. Andrew Jackson and his colleagues, Coffee and Carroll and their soldiers, the resolution reciting that "their late distinguished deeds have humbled our late inveterate foe and added ever blooming laurels and glory to the arms of America." It appears that a military parade had been given on the first receipt of the news of the battle of New Orleans which was not as -enthusiastic as it should have been, and another was ordered by council under the control of the city which came up to the full expectations of all the people, though council cautioned the people against illuminating their houses ''owing to the material of which most of them are composed;" but the Exchange was illuminated, and a band was kept there from seven o'clock to ten in the evening, giving musical selections all the time.

The proclamation of the president in which the treaty of peace was ratified was made public by the mayor on the 28th of February, 1815, and a recommendation that the Exchange be again illuminated on Sunday, the 4th of March, was adopted, when the people were asked to observe that day "as a day for innocent recreation and amusement in consequence of the ratification of a treaty of peace with Great Britain founded on the basis of perfect reciprocity, and honorable to this nation, resolved that the board having heretofore devoted all the means and energies in the prosecution of just war, now hails the return of peace and amity and commerce which it is hoped will follow this gratifying event, and declare itself equally devoted to the maintenance of peace and friendship with the subjects of Great Britain, always having in view the sacred and patriotic duty of considering in the scope of its authority all persons 'enemies in war, in peace friends.' "

The result of the War of 1812-15 gave to the people of Savannah that satisfaction which might have been looked for in those whose greatest interests were centered in the principles involved in the questions upon which that war was waged; and it is shown in the naming of localities in the city such as Hull, Perry and McDonough streets and Orleans and Chippewa squares.

Decade Of Noted Events

Visit of Monroe and Calhoun - The New Independent Church - The Great Fire of 1820 - Yellow Fever Epidemic (also 1820) - Locating the Burial Place of Nathanael Greene - City Affairs Continued - Dry Culture Contracts - Winfield Scott and David Porter, Savannah's Guests - Reception of La Fayette - Memorials to General Greene and Count Pulaski - Mayors and Aldermen, 1821-24 - Canal Project Inaugurated - Fort Pulaski Commenced.

The fifth president. James Monroe, together with Secretary of War John C. Calhoun, General Gaines and staff, Mr. Gouvemeur, Lieutenant Monroe and the president's secretary, entered the city on Saturday, the 8th of May, 1819, at six o'clock in the evening. Anticipating the visit, the city council, as early as the 18th of March, appointed a committee composed of Aldermen T. U. P. Charlton. Charles Harris and John H. Ash to take measures for the reception and entertainment of the honored guest. By action of these gentlemen the military and social organizations promised their assistance, and council was requested "to attend with its officers on the President the day after his arrival and congratulate him in his visit to the city and express such other sentiments of gratitude and joy as the occasion and the comforts and simplicity of Republicans should warrant to the eminent patriot and virtuous citizen they propose to felicitate on his arrival, and that the address on such occasion be passed and voted in council and delivered by the mayor who is to adopt the same." The mayor at that time was James M. Wayne who resigned on the 12th of July following and was succeeded by T. U. P. Charlton. The report of the committee showed that "William Scarborough, Esq., had politely otfered his new and elegant house at the west end of the town for the reception and residence of the President and which your committee have accepted with thanks." To meet the expenses of the reception tin1 sum of five thousand dollars was appropriated, and an additional sum of five hundred dollars was set apart to provide for a ball and supper.

The Georgian, of May 9th, said: "He was rowed from the Carolina .shore in twenty minutes, and when lie reached the Georgia waters was saluted with 21 guns from the Revenue Cutter Dallas, which was repeated when the barge reached the wharf, the Chatham Light Artillery, at the same time, opening a Federal salute on the bluff. He was received at the wharf by the Mayor and Receiving Committee of Aldermen who conducted him up the bank. Nearly the whole population of Savannah thronged the bank, and every voice and every heart welcomed him to Georgia. The military, consisting of the Georgia Hussars, the Chatham Light Artillery, the Republican Blues, the Fencibles, and the Savannah Volunteer Guards, were drawn out on a verdant plain, parallel with the river, and exhibited an appearance to the President which must have excited his admiration. Colonel Marshall, with his staff officers, occupied their proper stations in front of this splendid line, elegantly mounted and caparisoned. It is not uninteresting to state that the company of Light Artillery is the same that received General Washington on his visit to this city in 1791, and that the two brass pieces with which it saluted President Monroe were presented to it by the father of our country, as a compliment, for the merits which it displayed on that occasion. The President having reviewed, on foot, with great attention, their whole front, mounted a horse, which he preferred to a superb barouche which was also in waiting for his accommodation, and rode to the new and elegant home of Mr. Scarborough, escorted by the Mayor, the different committees and the military companies. On bis way to his lodgings, down Broughton street, the President was preceded by half the Hussars and followed by the other half with all the military companies, and we do not hesitate to declare that with regard to precision of movement and elegance of appearance they have never been surpassed in the United States. Those companies were soon displayed in front of his horse and fired feux cle joie, by platoons, companies, and divisions. The President attended Divine Service at the new Presbyterian Church,* and witnessed the dedication of that magnificent building by the Rev. Dr. Kolloek " Continuing, the Savannah papers recorded the fact that "On Monday the citizens in a body marched in procession to the President's lodgings preceded by the municipal officers, accompanied by the officers of the army and navy, and the military companies, and at 2 p. m. James M. Wayne, the Mayor, delivered to him a congratulatory address, to which the President made a respectful reply.''

' The address of the mayor is too long to be copied here in full, but it began with these happy expressions: "The corporation and citizens of Savannah present to you their assurance of the respect which they have for your public services and their sincere regard and admiration of those virtues and attainments which have placed you among the best and most eminent of our countrymen. In the present state of our country, to have attained the exalted station which you now hold is to the world, and it will be to posterity, a sufficient proof of your fitness for it however much experience may show the elevation of persons and officers to be but an equivocal testimonial of worth and merit.'' And in conclusion he said : "May you long live, sir, to enjoy this happiness, and we sincerely hope that the termination of your political career may be as gratifying to yourself as your liie and administration have been hitherto beneficial to your country."

The president's reply was all that could have been. wished for, and ended in these words : "1 beg you to accept my best thanks for your kind reception, and best wishes for the prosperity and welfare of the town and citizens of Savannah."

The citizens gave him a public dinner on the 11th, and his whole time was taken up during the days of his visit with partaking of the hospitality of the officers and people and in lending his presence to social functions and the enjoyment of pleasure trips. During his stay he witnessed the dedication of the new building of the Independent Presbyterians, and it so happened that at that very time the new steamer Savannah, the first steamship to cross the ocean, was at the wharf preparing for the voyage which made her famous.

Columbian Museum and Savannah Daily Gazette of Thursday, May 13th , copied an editorial which appeared in the Republican of the evening before, describing the public dinner, beginning with an account of the president's visit to the ship and trip in her to Tybee, in these words: "Yesterday the President with the gentlemen who accompany him, the Secretary of War, General Gaines, Colonel Clinch, General Floyd and staff, General John McIntosh, General D. B. Mitchell, General Huger, of South Carolina, the Rev. Dr. Kolloek, Judge Berrien, Col. Marshall and staff, the committee of reception, Judge Charlton, Charles Harris, Esq., and Dr. Waring, and a number of our most reputable citizens, both civil and military, went down to Tybee in the elegant steamship Savannah. The wind being from the northwest the sails were but partly used against the floodtide; but the wheels were the essential powers that forced her way through the water - and writh the utmost majesty she proceeded down the river, until she came opposite the light-house - when she east anchor for a few minutes to enable our distinguished guest to take a more certain view of our harbor, the different bearings and distances of either the impediments to the navigation which might be distinguished by beacons, or ports which might be made capable of defence.

"The anchor was then weighed and she proceeded up the river, accompanied by the steamboat Altamaha, and two bai'ges manned by a picked crewT and steered by two experienced masters of vessels. On going by the Patriot brig La Fortuna, lying near Long Island, the American colors were hoisted at her foremast, and those with the national flag of the brig were lowered as the steamship passed - a salute was then fired from her and three loud cheers acknowledged the respectful esteem of foreigners to our beloved chief magistrate. The tide having fallen too low for the ship to come farther up, the whole party went on board the steamboat and partook of a collation prepared for the occasion.

"On the steam-boat 's passing the revenue cutter Dallas commanded by Captain Jackson, lying opposite the town, handsomely dressed with colors, a salute of 21 guns was fired from her. The boat proceeded to the steam-boat wharf, when Air. Monroe landed amidst a large concourse

From the 5th to the 8th of May (the day of the president's arrival) this advertisement was running in the columns of the Museum and Gazette: - ''Passage for New York. The steamship Savannah, Capt., Rodgers, will make one trip to New York, previous to her departure for Liverpool, should a sufficient number of passengers offer, and will be ready to proceed in course of this week or commencement of the next. Apply on board at Taylor's wharf, or to Scarborough & McKinne.

It was at Mr. Scarborough's house the president was being entertained, and that house was on West Broad street, then one of the most imposing private houses in the city. It is now the West Broad Street Colored School.

On the Tuesday of his stay in Savannah. Mr. Monroe partook of a public dinner under a large booth at the east end of the bay, under the trees. This account is copied from the Savannah Republican and Evening Ledger:

"The booth was ornamented with wreaths and branches of laurels. At the head of the table was an arch composed of laurels beautifully decorated with roses, so disposed as to form the name ot James Monroe. The company having dined the following toasts were announced from the chair accompanied with appropriate music from the stand. During the giving of toasts, the Dallas fired salutes, her commander having obligingly tendered his services for the occasion. On the president retiring from the table a grand national salute was opened which made the welkin ring. The regular toasts were :

"2. The Federal Union. May the head be accursed that shall insiduously plot its dissolution, the arm withered that shall aim a blow at its existence.

"3. The Constitution of the United States, framed by the wisdom of sages, may our statesmen and our posterity regard it as the national ark of political safety never to be abandoned.

"4. The military, naval, legislative, and diplomatic worthies of the Revolution. It is our duty and delight to honor them and to tell their deeds with filial piety.

"5. General George Washington, revered be his memory! Let our statesmen and our warriors obey his precepts, our youth emulate his virtues and services, and our country is safe.

"8. Adams. Jefferson and Madison - They have withdrawn from public duty, and illustrious by their virtues, and services carry with them a nation's gratitude.

''9. The Navy. Imperishable fame accompanies the Star Spangled Banner. In the last voir we coped with Britain on the ocean; now we hear of no search, no impressment.

"16. The Army. Our pillar of protection on the land; their valor and patriotism won the victories of York and of Erie, of Chippewa, and of Niagara.

"11. The Militia - Yet the bulwark of our country. Invincibles fell before them in the battle of Baltimore, and of Plattsburg, of the Thames and of New Orleans.

"12. Concord between the North and the South, the East and the West. May unanimity till the end of time, falsify the timid fears of those who predict dissolution.

"By president of the United States. - The people of the United States. They constitute but one family, and may the bond which unites them together as brethren and freemen be eternal.

"By John C. Calhoun, secretary of war - The freedom of the press, and the responsibility of public agents. The sure foundation of the noble fabric of American liberty.

"By General John McIntosh - Peace with all the world as long as they respect our rights - disgrace and defeat to the power who would invade them.

"After the mayor retired - James M. Wayne, Mayor of City. By Colonel Marshall - The governor of the State of Georgia, a virtuous man and zealous chief magistrate.

In the grant of George the second to the trustees of the Independent church, in 1756, it was stipulated that the grant was made "upon condition nevertheless that in case such meeting house shall not he erected and built within three years * * * that then the said lot [letter K Decker 'Ward] hereby granted shall revert- to us, our heirs and successors." A meeting house was erected within the time stated, and in it the congregation worshiped until that building was destroyed by the great tire of 1786. when for a while they by permission (in the failure to procure a pastor) of the Baptists their house of worship was used. In 1800 a new church was finished on lot Q, in St. James square (now Telfair Place) between York and President streets. That church was of wood, and in the storm of 1804 its steeple was blown down. In 1816 a committee was appointed to select another building site, and they succeeded in securing the five lots on the south side of South Broad street (now Oglethorpe avenue) between Bull and Whitaker, and on the 13th of January. 1817, the corner stone was laid of the new building which was designed by Architect John II. Green, of New York. It was finished in 1819, at a cost of $96. 108.671/6. and was dedicated by its pastor the Rev. Henry Kollock, D. D., on Sunday, May 9th, before it was actually finished. President James Monroe being present.

The Columbian Museum and Savannah Daily Gazette of the day following, Monday, the 10th. had this to say of the services: "Yesterday the new Independent Presbyterian Church which has been building in this city and now nearly finished, was solemnly dedicated to the service of Almighty God. An able and impressive discourse was delivered from the second chapter of Haggai, and ninth verse. F'or grandeur of design and neatness of execution we presume this Church is not surpassed by any in the United States. It is seldom that we discover a scene more affecting and impressive than this solemn ceremony afforded; and in this city we never witnessed such an immense congregation, so large a portion of which was formed by female beauty; also the President of the United States and suite, and other distinguished personages belonging to the Army and Navy of the United States, who listened with pious attention to the learned, appropriate and eloquent discourse of the reverend Pastor. In no other than the house of God, in the midst of so imposing a scene, we could, and with emphasis echo the words of the reverend preacher, Dr. Henry Kollock, 'The glory of this latter house shy U be greater than the former, saith the Lord of hosts, and in this place will I give peace, saith the Lord of hosts.' The psalms and hymns interspersed through the service were particularly well adapted to the solemnity of the occasion, and the performance of the vocal music tended to elevate the soul to sublime and heavenly musings. The respectful attention and the fervency of the responses all combined to induce the belief that the heart accompanied the lips in supplication to the throne of Divine Grace."

From a scene of rejoicing, embracing the visit of a president, the dedication of a magnificent church building and a description of what was then considered a floating palace which made a glorious record for itself and the city whose name it bore, we must pass to one of a sad nature. The next important incident in the history of the city, closely following that just given was the very disastrous fire of 1820.

The Georgian of Monday, January 17, 1820, gave a description of the great conflagration and it is herein copied as the only means of giving the reader the best account obtainable: "The city of Savannah after a lapse of twenty-four years, has again experienced the horror of a conflagration far surpassing in violence and destruction the melancholy fire of 1796. Numbers were at the time reduced to extreme distress, yet the buildings consumed were generally of so little value compared with those we have just lost, and the property they contained was so inferior in every respect to that with which our warehouses were filled, that it was generally considered beneficial, by making room for other buildings better adapted to the growing commerce of the place. But the Genius of desolation could not have chosen at this day a spot within the limits of our ill-fated city where so wide a scene of misery, ruin and despair might be laid as that which was recently the center of wealth and industry but is now a heap of worthless ruins. It is with the most painful reluctance that we are obliged to recur to the horrors of a scene the recollection of which can never be effaced from the minds of those who witnessed it, and whose effects continue to present themselves at every turn, and in every variety of distress.