Forsyth Park - Savannah, GA

Savannah is a city that owes much of its unique character to ongoing efforts to preserve and promote open and public space. It is a dense urban oasis full of architectural and historic grandeur located in Southeastern Georgia. The city is home to one of the largest National Landmark Historic Districts in the Unites States. This historic district also coincides with the area of the city from which the majority of its economic engine originates. The downtown area, the riverfront, and surrounding areas are all encompassed within this district. A remarkable and unique characteristic of this area of the city are the the high number of public squares that abound with greenery that are scattered throughout its roadways. As a result, Savannah has a surplus of public space and walking instead of driving is an extremely attractive option. Besides the the squares that characterize the unique flavor of the city, Savannah does have a large park located within the district as well. Forsyth Park is a favored destination for locals and tourists alike, and it serves as the flagship park of the city's open space system.

The park, which was established in the 1840s and expanded in the 1850s, is rectangular in shape and occupies 30 acres in total. It is bounded on all four sides by dense city development, and is therefore a very popular destination for residents. An abundance trees are scattered throughout sections of the park and its paths, which allow for a pivotal shade area, which is extremely valuable during the hot and humid days that are characteristic of Savannah and it southern climate throughout the late spring and summer. The park is also immaculately landscaped, with many native trees and plants littered among the architectural and monumental gems. In 1858, a popular fountain was added at the northern end of the park and is modeled after the fountains in the Place de la Concorde in Paris. This was consistent with the overwhelming inspiration the nineteenth century urban renewal of Paris had on the creation and design of the park and its surrounding area. Around St. Patrick's Day, it is a tradition for the fountain's water to be dyed green, which is an homage to the historic Irish influence and presence in Savannah.

The park also acts as a recreational focal point for the local community. There are numerous paved walking and running paths as well as a large children's play area. There are also tennis courts, basketball courts, and large areas available for soccer and Frisbee activities. There is also large expanse of open grass space that is smaller version of the Great Lawn in Central Park, if a comparison was needed.

As is a running theme in highly successful urban parks, some of the most highly desirable real estate in Savannah lies within close proximity to the park's boundaries. A main selling point to living in this prized area of town is the access to the park and the high quality of life that it guarantees. In a city that helps to perfect the idea of an urban forest, Forsyth Park is an essential component to the life of the city. While the various small plazas and squares serve their purpose, a large outlet of open space for relaxation and recreation is needed. Forsyth Park serves that role, and is an example of a wonderfully maintained public park, even with the giant, and exquisitely beautiful, monument to the struggle for the Confederacy in the heart of the park. After all, Savannah is in the heart of the south...