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 F 
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 OIF- 
 
 ^fboo Island, Gf. 
 
 And a Sketch of the 
 
 Savannah & Tybee R. R. 
 
 ■BT 
 
 B. H. RICHARDSON, 
 
 Savannah, Ga 
 
 PRESS OF SAVANNAH TIMES PUBLISHING COMPANY. 
 1886. 
 
 I librarian ot Congress, ac Washuitfton. D. C 
 
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Glass. 
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 And a Sketch of the 
 
 Savannal? & Tybee R. R. 
 
 BY 
 
 / 
 
 2,^ B. H, RICHARDSON 
 
 Savannah. Ga. 
 
 PRESS OF SAVANNAH TIMES PUBLISHING COMPANY. 
 1886. 
 
 Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1886, by 13. H. RICHARUSON, in the Ollice of the 
 Librarian of Congress, at Washington, D. C. 
 
AS A TRIBUTE 
 
 TO THE 
 
 Energy, Foresight and Public Spirit 
 
 OF 
 
 CAPT. DANIEL G. PURSE, 
 
 President of the Savannah and Tybee Railroad, 
 
 Manifested 271 the grand eyiterprise which has linked the Forest 
 City to Tybee Island— the Soiiih's Long Bra7ich—with ba?ids of 
 steel, this little sketch is dedicated ivith the esteein and friendship 
 
 of 
 
 THE AUTHOR. 
 
 Savannah, Ga., December, 1886. 
 
THE SOUTH'S LONG BRANCH. 
 
 Magnificent Seaside Resort — Attractions for 
 Strangers, Recreation for All — A Summer Resort 
 WITH Allurements for Winter Tourists — A Sketch 
 of Tybee Island, Ga., i2>^ Miles from Savannah, 
 AND i8 Miles to the Extreme Southern End — 
 Historical Incidents — Reminiscences — Fortifica- 
 tions — Picturesque Scenery, Pure Water, Perfect 
 Drainage, Ample Hotel Accommodations — A Rail- 
 road FROM THE Forest City, the Seaport of the 
 Empire State of the South, to the Sea — A Gigan- 
 tic Enterprise Conceived and Successfully Accom- 
 plished BY Captain D. G. Purse, a Prominent 
 Capitalist and Citizen of Savannah. 
 
 B. H. Richardson. 
 
 Within the past twenty years, particular attention has been 
 directed to the South, especially in the North and the West ; and 
 hundreds of thousands of the representative people of these sec- 
 tions have been attracted to its sunny clime in search of recrea- 
 tion and health, and particularly in winter, from a desire to escape 
 the rigors of their own climate. Naturally, this annual inflow of 
 strangers has acted as a stimulus upon the Southern people, and 
 with the purpose of encouraging it they have exerted their best 
 efforts. 
 
A HISTORICAL SKETCH 
 
 The tide of travel has been particularly directed to Georgia 
 and Florida, and Savannah^ the chief seaport of the Empire State 
 of the South has been the Mecca to which thousands of these 
 pilgrims have wended their way. While hundreds have re- 
 mained in that lovely city but a few days, thousands more have 
 been charmed by its picturesque beauty and have lingered 
 longer. 
 
 For health seekers and tourists few cities offer greater attrac- 
 tions in the South than Savannah, with its lovely squares and 
 parks, its monuments, its handsome churches, its superb Art 
 Gallery and Historical Society Library, Hospitals, Infirmaries, 
 Masonic Temple, Odd Fellows Hall, and other Society Halls and 
 Military Armories, and it is not surprising, that with its equable 
 cHmate, its unsurpassed transportation facilities and its grand mar- 
 ket, from which are supplied not only the products of Southern 
 soil, luxuries of its waters such as fish in every variety, oysters, 
 clams, crabs, and shrimp, but the choicest articles of the North- 
 ern and Western markets. Savannah, therefore, is popular 
 with those seeking health and recreation. With all these ad- 
 vantages, however, there was something lacking to fill the full 
 measure of the desire, not alone of the stranger, but those to the 
 " manner born." 
 
 New York has her Long Branch, New Jersey her Cape May, 
 Maryland her Eastern Shore, Rhode Island her Nantucket, and 
 Savannah, equally fortunate, scarcely realized that she had at her 
 arm's length, as it were, an Island with attractions and resources 
 capable of development that would compare favorably as a 
 pleasure resort with any of the places named. It remained for 
 an energetic citizen, a man of broad views, nerve and deter- 
 mination, to grapple the situation, conceive the scheme from 
 which would be evolved a plan for utilizing the resources of this 
 island, and develop it into a resort that would prove attractive 
 alike to the summer health and pleasure seekers nearer home, as 
 well as the tourist and invalid from the bleak North. This 
 man was Captain D. G. Purse, and what he has secured to the 
 people of interior Georgia and her sister Southern States, who 
 seek the sea coast during the summer for health and recreation 
 as well as for the enfeebled invalid, and the wealthy pleasure 
 tourist from the North in winter, is told briefly within these 
 
OF TYBEE ISLAND, GA. 
 
 pages, in which narrative the writer has endeavored to present 
 a truthful yet graphic description of the " Long Branch of the 
 South," 
 
 TYBEE ISLAND. 
 
 • 
 
 Tybee, far famed, dehghtful Tybee, whose shores are laved by 
 the bounding billows of the broad Atlantic, is the most important 
 link in the chain of islands which fringe the South Atlantic coast 
 from Charleston to Fernandina. 
 
 It is at the entrance to the harbor of Savannah and within its 
 road-stead vessels find safe anchorage during the most tumultu- 
 ous storms. In 1874 the island first came into prominence as a 
 fashionable seaside resort, and grew rapidly in favor, and it would 
 have been to-day, what it is hoped to make it in the near future, 
 but for want of perfect connection with the main land. This 
 drawback is being rapidly removed by the Railroad now in 
 process of construction, connecting the Island with Savan- 
 nah, which will reduce the time of the trip frcm two hours 
 to thirty minutes. 
 
 THE SETTLEMENT OF THE ISLAND. 
 
 The most careful research has failed to fix definitely the exact 
 time of the settlement of Tybee, but it would appear from the 
 best information that at an early period in the life of the Georgia 
 colony the Island was peopled, though not very thickly settled. 
 It is highly probable, however, that it was occupied a short 
 time previous to the settlement of Savannah by people fiom the 
 neighboring South Carolina Islands. 
 
 THE FIRST PRAYER ON TYBEE. 
 
 One of the most interesting and note- worthy incidents in connec- 
 tion with the history of Tybee is that upon its soil the Rev. John 
 Wesley, the founder of Methodism in America, uttered his first 
 
A HISTORICAL SKETCH 
 
 prayer in Georgia. Every reader of history will recollect 
 what was called " the great embarcation " from England which 
 left the port of Liverpool in December, 1735. Prominent among 
 that company were John Wesley, David Nitschmann, Sr., a vener- 
 able Moravian Bishop, who had suffered persecution, impris- 
 onment and almost death in Germany, and who was now leading 
 another colony of Moravians to join their brethren already settled 
 near Savannah. It was indeed a lare company. They had 
 been out for fifty-seven days, crowded together in small ships, 
 when their hearts were gladdened by the sight of Tybee ; they 
 felt that their long and dangerous voyage was ended, and 
 disembarking safely on the Island immediately their hearts were 
 uplifted in thankfulness to the Creator for the preservation ot 
 their lives. What a spectacle it must have been, that the beach 
 at Tybee presented on that calm Sunday morning in February, 
 1735) when the Rev. John Wesley, surrounded by these people, 
 who were seeking in the new world relief Irom oppression and 
 persecution, and the enjoyment of their religious convictions, 
 on bended knees and with bowed heads, gave utterance to 
 words of adoration and thankfulness to the Almighty, who had 
 safely brought them " to the haven where they would be." 
 
 THE LIGHT HOUSE. 
 
 As early as 1733 a light-house, to rise ninety feet above the 
 surface, — was by direction of General Oglethorpe, begun 
 near the northern end of Tybee Island, and a guard was there 
 posted. It was intended for the guidance of vessels entering the 
 Savannah river. Moore informs us that " this beacon was to be 
 twenty-five feet square at the base, ninety feet high, and ten feet 
 each way at the top." 
 
 It was to be constructed " of the best pine, strongly timbered, 
 raised upon cedar piles and brickwork round the bottom." 
 
 He adds that, when finished, it would be " of good service to 
 all shipping, not only those bound to this port, but also to Caro- 
 lina, for the land of all the coast for some hundred miles is so 
 alike, being all low and woody, that a distinguishing mark is of 
 great consequence." 
 
OF TYBEE ISLAND, GA. 
 
 Much delay occurred in the completion of this structure, and 
 appropriations were made from time to time, during the colo- 
 nial epoch, for its repair. A plate of this tower is in the Public 
 Record office in London, and a small engraving- of it may be seen 
 at page 88 of Harris' Memorials of Oglethorpe. In the course of 
 time this beacon fell unto ruin and was, in later days, supplanted 
 by the substantial light-house constructed under the auspices of 
 the General Government. 
 
 THE ESCAPE OF GOVERNOR WRIGHT. 
 
 It will be remembered that after his escape under cover of 
 night by way of Bonaventure from Savannah, Governor Wright 
 took refuge on board the British fleet then lying in Tybee 
 Roads. Subsequent to the demonstration by Barclay and 
 Grant, in March, 1776, against the rice-laden vessels lying at 
 the wharves at Savannah, and when the expedition had 
 returned to its anchorage at the mouth of Savannah River, Gov- 
 ernor Wright, the officers of the fleet, and the King's soldiers 
 frequently went ashore on Tybee Island and utilized for their 
 comfort and enjoyment the houses there situated. This the Re- 
 publican Council of Safety determined to prevent by the destruc- 
 tion of those edifices. 
 
 Accordingly, an expedition consisting of riflemen, light infan- 
 try, volunteers and a few Creek Indians— led by Archibald Bul- 
 loch, on the 25th of March, 1776, made a descent upon the Island 
 and burned every house except one in which a sick woman and 
 several children were found. Two marines from the fleet and a 
 Tory were killed, and one marine and several Tories were cap- 
 tured. Although the Cherokee man of war and an armed sloop 
 kept up an incessant fire, the *' Rebel " party, — consisting of 
 about one hundred men, — sustained no loss, and returned to 
 Savannah in safety having fully executed the prescribed mission. 
 
 After the capture of Savannah in December, 1778, by Colonel 
 Campbell, the British constructed a fort near the light-house on the 
 northern extremity of Tybee Island. It was an earth-work, 
 covered now by the site purchased by the United States Govern- 
 
A HISTORICAL SKETCH 
 
 ment in 1874 for a heavier defensive work; was designed 
 to guard the entrance into the Savannah River, and was 
 armed with a twenty-tour pounder gun and an eight and a 
 half inch howitzer, With these guns the EngHsh endeavored to 
 intercept the entrance of the French Squadron, under Count 
 d'Estaing, in September, 1779. 
 
 As soon however, as a detachment of French troops was thrown 
 upon the Island, Fort Tybee was precipitately abandoned, and the 
 garrison retreated upon Savannah. 
 
 THE MARTELLO TOWER. 
 
 One of the most notable and conspicuous objects on the Island, 
 which is viewed with much interest by visitors, is the Martello 
 Tower standing prominently forth on the northern extremity in 
 proximity to the light-house, and supposed to be the work of 
 the Spaniards before Oglethorpe's time. It is a curious looking 
 structure of tabby, a concrete of oyster shells and lime, in an 
 excellent state of preservation, very substantial in appearance. 
 There is little data obtainable in reference to its history, but its 
 formation and the character of its interior corroborate the 
 generally conceived impression that it was built in the early part 
 of the last century, designed to prevent hostile ascent of the 
 Savannah River, and was used as a kind of Fort. It com- 
 mands a good view of the channel and was Evidently constructed 
 with that special purpose. 
 
 AN INTERESTING INCIDENT OF THE FIRST REVOLUTION. 
 
 Among the many interesting historical memories which cluster 
 around Tybee, is that of its being the scene of the first capture of 
 a British vessel by an American commissioned man of war, in 
 the early days of the struggle of the American colonists. 
 On information received in the Spring of 1775 that a ship 
 had sailed from London with a large supply of powder and am- 
 munition for the use of the Royalists at Savannah, the authorities 
 
OF TYBEE ISLAND, GA. 
 
 of Carolina despatched forty armed men in barges to intercept her 
 before she entered Tybee Roads. Meanwhile a British armed 
 schooner had reached Tybee with instructions to protect the 
 powder ship on her arrival and cover the safe delivery of her 
 cargo. This "movement coming to the knowledge of the provis- 
 ional Government of Georgia, prompt action was decided upon. 
 A schooner was armed and commissioned and placed under the 
 command of Captains Bowen and Joseph Habersham with in- 
 structions to run off or capture the British armed vessel at Tybee. 
 On the approach of the American schooner the British schooner 
 stood out to sea, and the American lay off Tybee. On the loth 
 of July, 1775 the powder ship appeared in the offing, but suspi- 
 cions being excited on board, her Captain [Maidand] tacked and 
 put to sea again. 
 
 The American schooner pursued, and with the aid of the South 
 Carolina barges, previously mentioned, captured her and secured 
 sixteen thousand pounds of powder, nine thousand pounds of 
 which fell to the share of Georgia. Five thousand pounds of 
 this powder was sent to the patriots near Boston, Massachusetts. 
 
 THE FIRST BOMBARDMENT 
 
 ever heard on this Island was in September 1779, when the English 
 garrison at Fort Tybee was dislodged by the French and forced 
 to flee. The French fleet which was coming to the assistance of 
 the Georgia Colonists had been somewhat scattered by rough _ 
 seas and high winds, but was entirely united on the 4th Septem- 
 ber, 1779, and proceeded to Tybee ; on the 9th September, 
 Count D'Estaing aboard the Chimere accompanied by three oth- 
 er frigates, forced a passage across the bar of the Savannah 
 River. 
 
 Upon the approach of these war vessels, the English fleet con- 
 sisting of four ships, a galley an<l several small craft which had 
 been lying in Tybee Roads, weighed anchor and retired to Five- 
 Fathom Hole, just below Savannah ; and from Fort Tybee, as 
 heretofore stated, an ineffectual fire was opened upon the French 
 squadron ; a detachment of troops was thrown upon the 
 island and the Fort was immediately abandoned by its garri- 
 
10 A HISTORICAL SKETCH 
 
 son, which succeeded in effecting its escape. After occupying 
 the island during the night and finding it entirely deserted by 
 the enemy, the detachment was withdrawn the next morning. 
 
 CONFEDERATE OCCUPATION. 
 
 During the civil war the island was again fortified and occupied 
 as a garrison ; the Confederate troops taking possession on the 
 13th April, 1861. These troops comprised the ist Georgia Reg- 
 ulars, under command of Major [afterwards Brigadier General] 
 William Duncan Smith, and garrisoned the Island until 17th 
 July, 1 86 1, when they were ordered to Virginia and were reliev- 
 ed by the First Volunteer Regiment of Georgia, under command 
 of Colonel Hugh W. Mercer, subsequently Brigadier General. 
 The island remained thus garrisoned until November 13th, 1861, 
 when it was evacuated, the move being hastened by the capture 
 of Port Royal by the Federal Army, rendering the position of 
 the garrison insecure and liable at any time to capture or isola- 
 tion. The two eight inch columbiads which had been used for 
 its defense were dismounted and transferred to Fort Pulaski, 
 where they were placed in position, and did good service in its 
 subsequent bombardment. Sometime after the Confederate 
 evacuation of Tybee it was occupied by the Federal forces and 
 made the base of their operations in forcing the surrender of 
 Fort Pulaski and its garrison. 
 
 SELECTED FOR A GOVERNMENT FORT. 
 
 Thus from its earliest known history Tybee has been a con- 
 spicuous factor in the military annals of the State and Union, 
 and its importance as the key to the defences of the coast and 
 the river approaches on every occasion so clearly demonstrated, 
 attracted the attention of the General Government, and in 
 1874 purchase was made of a tract forming and constituting 
 the northeasterly point of the island with Tybee light near 
 the center of the tract containing 210 acres. The northeast shore 
 of this reservation was protected in 1882 from the inroads of 
 
OF TYBEE ISLAND, GA. li 
 
 the sea by three spur jetties composed of big mattresses overlaid 
 with brush and loaded down with stone. After the purchase 
 plans were prepared under the direction of General Gillmore for 
 heavy defensive earth works to be constructed on the north 
 point of the tract for the double purpose of preventing the 
 occupation of Tybee Roads by hostile forces, and defend- 
 ing the channel of approach to the Savannah river. Nothing 
 definite has been done in regard to these plans, but there is no 
 doubt that the advantages for the protection of our coast offered 
 by the site selected on Tybee, and the agitation of coast defense 
 brought into prominence by the late distinguished statesman 
 Hon. S. J. Tilden, will result ere long in securing action on the 
 part of the Government and the building of modern fortifications 
 on the plans of Gen. Gillmore, thus adding another attraction 
 to the Island. 
 
 DEVELOPMENT OF THE ISLAND. 
 
 I have briefly sketched in the preceding pages important in- 
 cidents connected with the settlement and history of Tybee, 
 which are of general interest, prior to the purchase of the 
 greater portion and controlling interest in the Island in 1885 by 
 Captain D. G. Purse, its present owner. 
 
 Captain Purse upon taking possession of the Island after his 
 purchase in April, 1885, found a very discouraging condition of 
 affairs, well calculated to deter a less determined will from en- 
 tering upon the work of restoration. After the violent storm of 
 1 88 1 that did so much damage at Savannah, on Tybee and along 
 the South Atlantic coast, Tybee experienced for a season a loss 
 of its extreme popularity of the previous seasons, though it was 
 the first storm to do any serious harm on the Island since 1S04, 
 eighty years before. 
 
12 A HISTORICAL SKETCH 
 
 DRAINAGE. 
 
 It was a popular theory too that after the storm the health of 
 the Island had been adversely affected because of the destruction 
 or choking up of its drainage. It is true the />^?y<?<:/ drainage of the 
 Island may have undergone deterioration, but Captain Purse, in 
 his efforts to fully restore the reputation that the Island enjoyed 
 prior to and in 1881 up to the time of the storm for perfect health- 
 fulness, found a more deep-seated and pernicious cause of un- 
 healthfulness to combat, than defective drainage, which, if irrem- 
 ediable, would have effectually defeated the plans he had con- 
 ceived for the Island's development. Thorough drainage un- 
 der all conditions is an essential to the healthfulness of any lo- 
 cality and particularly is this the case in our semi-tropical lati- 
 tudes. Fortunate is it for Tybee that nature has provided a sys- 
 tem of drainage for the Island that leaves but little for science to 
 do in bringing it to perfection, and this was accomplished under 
 the auspices of the late Tybee Improvement Company. The in 
 and out flow of several salt creeks, free from the contamination 
 of fresh water streams, with a series of ditches, at each receding 
 tide relieves the Island of all surface water. 
 
 ARTESIAN WELLS. 
 
 Just before his purchase on Tybee Island, Captain Purse at his 
 individual expense had demonstrated the possibility of procur- 
 ing in Savannah, at a moderate cost, a supply of artesian water 
 of the very purest character, in a well bored in the southwestern 
 portion of the city. Prior to this attempt the experience of 
 Charleston, so little removed from Savannah, had predisposed 
 our people to think their experience would be equally unsatisfac- 
 tory and expensive, and indeed the first announcement of the suc- 
 cess of the first well was discredited in Charleston, and made the 
 subject of an editorial in the News and Courier of that city, 
 against the possibility of a flow of pure artesian water being 
 obtained at 500 or 600 feet depth. Thus it was that the drinking 
 water supply of Tybee engaged the earliest consideration of its 
 
OF TYBEE ISLAND, GA. 13 
 
 owner, the result of analysis proving the water then in use to be of 
 the most deleterious composition. Captain Purse immediately 
 contracted with the Messrs. Mulligan who had bored so success- 
 fully his Savannah well, to go at once to Tybee and bore a well 
 near the Ocean House for the supply of that hostelry. Ar- 
 rangements were made for going down one thousand feet if nec- 
 essary, but a vein of the purest artesian water was struck 
 through a two inch pipe at a depth of two hundred and forty 
 feet, which lifted the water nearly fifteen feet above the surface 
 of the ground, within six hundred feet of the surging bil- 
 lows of the Atlantic Ocean, and made this experiment a greater 
 success than the one in the city. 
 
 The effect of this experiment upon the sea islands of the coast 
 cannot be over estimated in their future healthfulness, for 
 their greatest peril in the past has been from bad water. Nor 
 can too much praise be accorded to Captain Purse for this 
 noble contribution to the relief of suffering humanity, which he 
 successfully pushed to a perfect consummation, nothing daunted 
 by the prediction of pessimists. 
 
 Two more wells quickly followed the success of the first (at 
 about the same depth,) with same flow and quality of water — the 
 second well at the north end of the Island near the steamboat 
 wharf exhibiting the peculiararity of rising and falling with the 
 tide in its flow, but unaffected by it in quality, as shown by analy- 
 sis. The three wells now afford an abundant supply of the purest 
 water to Tybee, and the effect upon the health of the residents of 
 the Island since it was substituted for the well and pump water 
 drawn from shallow depths, (deep wells having been too pro- 
 nouncedly brackish) is extremely marked, has permanently 
 removed every cause of disease from the Island, and entides Ty- 
 bee to rank in healthfulness among the first of sea side resorts on 
 the entire Atlantic front, the year round. Complete analyses of 
 the water have been made by Prof. C. F. Chandler, Ph. D., New 
 York, Prof. G. A. Leibig, Ph. D., Baldmore, Md., Prof. H. C. 
 White, State Chemist, Athens, Ga., and Prof. Chas. U. Shep- 
 ard, Jr., Charleston, S. C, each of whom as the result of their 
 examinadon pronounce it perfectly pure potable or drinking 
 water. The latter. Prof. Shepard, of Charleston, S. C, who has 
 hid an extensive experience in analysing artesian waters, pro- 
 
14 A HISTORICAL SKETCH 
 
 nounces the water of the Tybee wells the purest of any speci- 
 mens of artesian water he has ever examined. 
 
 The full analyses of these distinguished scientists will be 
 found at the end of this sketch. 
 
 A GRAND BEACH 
 
 which has been pronounced far superior to that of Cape May 
 extends a distance of five miles from the steamer's landing at 
 the north portion to the south end, and is as smooth as a marble 
 floor. The beach makes a magnificent and solid roadway and 
 commands a complete view of Tybee Roads and the ocean 
 throughout the entire length, affording a drive which can 
 scarcely be surpassed for exhilaration and enjoyment. Daily 
 the grand ocean, with each succeeding tide, strews the beach 
 with tributes from its mysterious depths, in the shape of 
 myriads of beautiful shells of every form and description ; peb- 
 bles and peculiar fish formations ; and the collecting of these curi- 
 osities constitutes one of the most enjoyable pleasures of the visi- 
 tors to the Island — and "gathering shells by the seashore," 
 which to many, has been only a beautiful idea, becomes a pleas- 
 ant reality. Many of these shells are of rare and unique form 
 and appearance, and are worthy of preservation as souvenirs and 
 mementos. 
 
 During the season, this beach presents a scene of rare attrac- 
 tiveness and beauty, rivaling in a measure the panoramas of life 
 and beauty which render Long Branch, Newport, Cape 
 May and Nantucket renowned, — and in the near future when 
 full fruition crowns the plans already inaugurated and in process 
 of execution, Tybee will rank among the most noted of the 
 pleasure resorts of the country. 
 
OF TYBEE ISLAND, GA. 
 
 ITS PICTURESQUENESS. 
 
 The beach however, is not the only attraction of the Island, 
 which throughout its extent is of a peculiarly picturesque charac- 
 ter ; that portion bordering the beautiful clear creeks, which 
 flow into the ocean at the south end of Tybee Inlet con- 
 stitutes a beautiful forest, which is the home of the feath- 
 ered songsters of the South, the nimble rabbit and the 
 frisky squirrel, wild beasts and reptiles are banished from 
 its shady seclusion, and the narrow walks known as bridle 
 paths, favorite promenades with the ardent and sentimental, 
 not unfrequently become the path to a bridal. This woodland, 
 destined to be one of the most desirable portions of the Island, 
 is already mapped out into building lots, and will be dotted 
 with innumerable cottages. 
 
 Residents on the South End of the island have the choice of 
 surf or still water bathing,as the ocean and the creek are equally 
 accessible. The creeks in and about the Island which are so 
 conven-ient, may properly be termed 
 
 THE angler's delight, 
 
 as they literally teem with fish, from the fine bass to the tender 
 delicious perch. The fishing immediately about Tybee is superb, 
 and in season numerous hauls are made by seine, by those who 
 derive their livelihood from the treasures of the deep, whilst the 
 zealous desciple of Walton is equally as fortunate with rod and 
 tackle. Oysters are also abundant, are of a peculiarly delicious 
 flavor, and popular in the market; crabs and shrimps are plentiful 
 in season, and indeed those who seek pleasure and recreation in 
 piscatorial pursuits can find enjoyment ad libitiitn. 
 
 MAMMOTH TURTLES. 
 
 Tybee is noted, also, for its monster turtles, and " turtle hunt- 
 ing " is a popular pastime with the residents and visitors. These 
 turtles come on shore at various intervals to deposit their eggs 
 
16 A HISTORICAL SKETCH 
 
 and frequently nests have been discovered with two or three hun- 
 dred eggs. The discovery of a nest is evidence that a big turtle 
 is not far oif, and the searchers generally overtake the monster, 
 slowly and awkwardly ambling along the beach to or from the 
 water, stop her progress and turn her over on her back, in which 
 undignified position, with fins flapping and head protruding and 
 receding, she is left until arrangements are completed for her 
 removal. 
 
 Just above Tybee and in full view is Cockspur Island, upon 
 which is located 
 
 FORT PULASKI 
 
 which figured conspicuously in the late civil war. 
 
 This tract of land was conveyed to the United States, by Alex- 
 ander Telfair, by deed^dated March 15th, 1830, and comprises the 
 whole of Cockspur island, (except twenty acres on the eastern side, 
 which had been reserved for public use by the British Govern- 
 ment) and is said to contain one hundred and fifty, acres. 
 
 Jurisdiction was ceded to the United States by the act of the 
 Leglature of the State of Georgia, approved December 22nd, 
 1808. ' It appears that the eastern end of the island [twenty 
 acres] was reserved by the British authorities in 1758 or 1759, 
 and was afterwards occupied by a British work called Fort 
 George. 
 
 On February 6th, 1844, General J. G. Totten, chief engineer, 
 addressed a letter to the Secretary of War in which he set forth 
 the chain of transfers of the island, less the twenty acres reserved, 
 and stated that it was presumed that the title to the twenty acres 
 became vested in the State of Georgia, upon the separation of the 
 colonies from the British Government; that there was no evidence 
 of any direct cession of the same to the United States, and recom- 
 mended that application should be made to the Legislature of 
 Georgia, through the Governor, for a cession thereof . An extract 
 from a letter from the Governor of Georgia to the Secretary of 
 War, dated February 13th, 1844, shows that the Secretary of 
 War sent a communication to the Governor dated February 8th, 
 1844, requesting the cession recommended by General Totten, 
 
OF TYBEE ISLAND, GA. 17 
 
 which the Governor promised to lay before the Leg^islature at its 
 next session. It is not known what further action, if any, was 
 taken in the matter. 
 
 The building of the present Fort Pulaski was commenced in 
 1829 and was completed a few years alter, when it was gar- 
 risoned by the United States troops, and has been continuously 
 occupied except for a brief period during the late war when held 
 by the Confederates. 
 
 The Fort was taken possession of by the Georgia troops, early 
 in 1 861, and so occupied until after the capture of Tybee Island 
 and the advance of the Federal batteries. The bombardment of the 
 Fort was commenced on the loth April, 1862. Previous to open- 
 ing fire Major General Hunter of the Federal army, dispatched 
 an officer in an open boat, bearing a flag of truce, with a summons 
 to the commanding officer at Fort Pulaski to surrender ; to this 
 Colonel Olmstead commanding the Fort, replied laconically " I 
 am here to defend the Fort, not to surrender it." 
 
 Upon the receipt of this reply by the Federal commander, or- 
 ders were issued for the commencement of the bombardment 
 which was severe. The i ith April, at noon the fort was found to 
 be badly damaged, in momentary danger of the magazine being 
 exploded ; all avenues of escape for the garrison cut off, a sur- 
 render was determined upon and the Fort capitulated that day. 
 
 After the Federals took possession of the fort, the damages to 
 the casemates, etc., were at once repaired. The garrison was 
 withdrawn shordy after the 'close of hostilities and only a sergeant 
 left in charge. The fort is in full view of the steamers plying the 
 river, is an object of interest to all strangers, and the railroad now 
 construcdug to Tybee will pass near and in full view of it, 
 about two thousand feet to the south. 
 
 Above Fort Pulaski, on the same shore of the river, only two 
 miles below the city, is located 
 
 FORT OGLETHORPE. 
 
 Known until quite recenUy as " Fort Jackson," previous to 
 that as " Mud Fort." The land was originally conveyed to the 
 United States by Nicholas Turnbull, by deed dated May i6th, 1808, 
 
18 A HISTORICAL SKETCH 
 
 and is described in said deed as wharf" lot known by the number 
 12 situated at New Deptford, formerly known as Five Fathom 
 Hole, on the Savannah River east of the city of Savannah. 
 
 Jurisdiction was ceded to the United States by the act of the 
 Legislature of the State of Georgia, making a general cession of 
 jurisdiction approved December 22nd, 1808. The earliest draw- 
 ing on file is dated 182 1, and shows Fort Jackson of that date to 
 have been very similar to the present work. 
 
 General [then Lieutenant] J. K. F. Mansfield with a letter da- 
 ted January 24th, 1835, transmitted a drawing showing the con- 
 dition of the work at that time, on which there are memoranda 
 stating that the fort was destroyed by fire about two years previous 
 to that date. The rebuilding was commenced in 1842 ; from 
 this it would appear that occupation [except in a general way] 
 has not been continuous. 
 
 These two forts constitute the principal objects of attraction on 
 the water route between the Island and the city as they will 
 also by the Railroad route. The quarantine station off the oyster 
 beds, and the light houses and beacons, form a series 
 of interesting objects that render the trip pleasant and divert- 
 ing, while an occasional alligator, detected basking in the sun, 
 on the marshes along the shore, serves to stir up a little ex- 
 citement and lend variety to the occasion. 
 
 The trip to Tybeeby steamer, while quite enjoyable, occupied 
 too much time and though its attractions as a delightful resort 
 were recognized and appreciated ; though every season its visi- 
 tors were numbered by thousands, yet it was conceded that it 
 could never attain that degree of popularity which it promised, 
 until communication was reduced in time to the minimum. 
 
 Captain Purse, the owner of the Island, whose manage- 
 ment, the first season, after coming into possession of the proper- 
 ty, gave it the greatest boom it had ever enjoyed, quickly perceiv- 
 ed that the next great necessity for Tybee was a railroad from the 
 city, by which the distance would be reduced and the time be- 
 tween the two points brought within thirty minutes. He had 
 already extended the road on the Island a mile, and had introduc- 
 ed a locomotive for conveying passengers from steamboat land- 
 ing to hotels, for which mules had heretolore done service. The 
 idea of a railroad direct from Savannah to Tybee had been sug- 
 
OF TYBEK ISLAND, GA. 
 
 19 
 
 gested years ago, but it was never seriously entertained, or took 
 positive shape, being regarded as impracticable and too expen- 
 sive. Captain Purse, however had his own conception of the 
 enterprise, and after a careful study of the subject became. firmly 
 convinced that such a road was not only practicable and feasible, 
 but of easy construction and not more expensive than the average 
 of roads. To conceive, with him, was to execute, and he im- 
 mediately secured the services of Capt. John Postell a prominent 
 railroad engineer, had an accurate survey made and a line 
 mapped out. The surveys demonstrated the practicability of 
 the railroad scheme, and the next move was the procuring of a 
 charter, and the organization of a company. The presentation 
 of the scheme for the constructing of the road by Captain Purse 
 assisted by Captain Postell, with the result of the experiment, 
 which had demonstrated the feasability of the enterprise, at once 
 enlisted the attention of capitalists. 
 
 SAVANNAH AND TYBEE. 
 
 The company was incorporated in November 18S5, under a 
 very liberal and perpetual charter granted by the Legislature of 
 Georgia, and contract was made with a prominent northern Rail- 
 road contractor, Mr. T. B. Inness. to construct the line and com- 
 plete it by April ist, 1887. 
 
 BREAKING GROUND. 
 
 On the 9th of August, 1886, the initial move in the construction 
 of the Savannah and Tybee Railroad was taken in the presence 
 of a large number of prominent citizens, including the stockhold- 
 ers of the company, city and county officials, and officers of the 
 other roads centering in the city. 
 
 The starting point was selected about three hundred yards 
 south east ol the mansion on Deptford plantation, about a mile 
 and a half from the city, one of the most noted rice planta- 
 tions along the coast in the palmy ante bellum days command- 
 ing from a high bluff a full view of the river and city. 
 
20 A HISTORICAL SKETCH 
 
 Just southeast of this mansion, the point was selected for start- 
 ing- the 
 
 NEW LINE TO THE SEA 
 
 and the scene presented the 9th day of August, 1886, will 
 be remembered by all who were present. The President of 
 the Company, Captain D. G. Purse, who had worked so assid- 
 uously, and overcome so many obstacles in the carrying out of 
 the scheme which he deemed feasible, was conspicuous in the as- 
 semblage. It was a great day for him ; he was at last to see the 
 initial step taken in the accomplishment of his grand plan for the 
 fullest development of Tybee Island, and the intermediate points 
 along the river. Divine blessing was asked upon the enterprise 
 by Rev. Dr. Isaac P. Mendy, Rabbi Mickva Israel Congregation, 
 and then Master Thomas Purse, son of the President, stepped 
 forward with his miniature silver spade, dug close to the line and 
 threw out the first spade full of dirt. Just half a century previous 
 his grand father, the late Honorable Thomas Purse, had perform- 
 ed the identical work in the construction of the now great and 
 mighty Central Railroad of Georgia, in the building of which he 
 took an active and conspicuous part. 
 
 Active work was commenced immediately after the break- 
 ing of ground ; under systematic management it has progressed 
 rapidly, and it is probable that before the ist of April, 1887 cars 
 wiir be running on the line. 
 
 The road enters the City at its Eastern extremity and will 
 arrange street line connections with all parts of the city includ- 
 ing hotels and depots, for the rapid reception and delivery of 
 passengers. 
 
 A BEAUTIFUL ROUTE. 
 
 There will be no road in the country more delightful to travel 
 over than the line from the Forest City to the Seashore. It 
 will be nearly free from dust. For the greater part of the distance, 
 
OF TYBEE ISLAND. GA. 21 
 
 the river is in imtnediate view, and after passing Causton's bluff, 
 the route is open to the free sweep of the breezes from the ocean 
 for ten miles. 
 
 The country through which the road runs is not only beautiful- 
 ly picturesque, but has many points of historic interest. 
 
 DEPTFORD. 
 
 The spacious grounds of Twickenham, Bruton Hill, Deptford, 
 Causton's Bluff and Mackey Point plantations present conspic- 
 uous attractions to the northern tourist especially. This is partic- 
 ularly the case with that portion of Deptford traversed by the road, 
 which affords lovely spots for picnics and other gatherings. 
 
 The numerous, magnificent, stalwart oaks with their mammoth 
 limbs, beautifully and gracefully draped with the soft moss con- 
 stitute a grove of surpassing loveliness equaling in grandeur 
 the far famed avenues of Bonaventure. 
 
 A stroll through one of these groves is a treat that will be 
 keenly enjoyed and appreciated by every true lover of nature, 
 — for it is here we see the wonderful handiwork of Nature's God. 
 
 The topography of the land in proximity to the road is varied, 
 and the pleasure seeker's eye is delighted as the train rushes by 
 over the smooth steel rail, with views of sloping hills, and lovely 
 dells teeming with the luxuriance of forest growth and in summer 
 waving grain. 
 
 causton's bluff 
 
 Is probably the most conspicuous, and interesting point on the 
 line, and few prettier or more romantic spots can be found any 
 where. 
 
 A LOVELY GROVE. 
 
 The grove at this bluff is undoubtedly the grandest and lovel: 
 est to be found any where in this immediate section. 
 
22 A HISTORICAL SKETCH 
 
 It is composed of magnificent live oaks of mammoth propor- 
 tions,whose stalwart limbs are clothed in the Spanish moss, which 
 is so generally admired by all strangers. One could almost imag- 
 ine that it had been designed and laid out by a skillful landscape 
 gardener, the arrangement is so artistic. 
 
 The grove however is of natural growth, and the beautiful ar- 
 rangement is of nature's cunning hand, save the heavy battle- 
 ments in which man has encased it, of which we shall speak 
 further on. 
 
 AN UNFORTUNATE LOVE AFFAIR OF THE OLDEN TIME. 
 
 Is connected with the history of the blufT, named for John Caus- 
 ton, the owner, and contributed in no small degree to the fail- 
 ure of the ministry of John Wesley in Georgia. 
 
 This love affair was with Sophy WiUiamson, niece of Mr. Caus- 
 ten, who was a bailifT, in the progress of which Mr. Wesley mix- 
 ed himself up with men who took advantage of his simplicity, 
 willfully perverted his words and deeds, and thus placed him- 
 at a great disadvantage before the people, causing him to leave 
 the colony and return to England. 
 
 It was at this bluff that immense fortifications were constructed 
 in 1862, by the Confederate forces, with the purpose of prevent- 
 ing the advance up the river of the Federal gun boats, thus tak- 
 ing the place of Fort Pulaski on the inner line of defense, af- 
 ter the surrender of that fort. 
 
 These fortifications were constructed under skillful engineers 
 as the bluff was regarded as a very important point commanding 
 the Savannah river and the approach to the city from Thunder- 
 bolt, as well as by way of the Islands in front of it. These fortifica- 
 tions are about the only ones in the vicinity of the city that re- 
 main intact, the others having been leveled in the march of 
 progress, and their once war-like sites are now adorned with 
 beautiful residences, the peaceful, happy homes of a prosperous 
 people. 
 
 In the latter part of 1862 there was quite a lively little skirmish 
 at this point. As you glide over the rails nearing Causton's bluff, 
 cast your eye to the east and you will notice Whitmarsh Is- 
 
OF TYBEE ISLAND. GA. 23 
 
 land, which was covered by the batteries at Causton's bluff, moun- 
 ted with three thirty-two pounders and three small batteries. 
 
 After the capture of Fort Pulaski, a detachment of Federal 
 soldiers in small boats, worked their way through the creeks and 
 outlets to Whitmarsh Island, their gun boats having advanced as 
 far as Gibson's Point. 
 
 The 13th Georgia were at Causton's bluffand early one morn- 
 ing, while the detachment on duty, under Captain Richardsone, 
 were at breakfast, an attempt was made by the Federals on Whit- 
 marsh Island to surprise them and capture the batteries. Fortu- 
 nately the movement was discovered ; the Federals with cheers 
 were dashing over the narrow bridge connecting Oakland and 
 Whitmarsh, and in a few minutes would have been upon the bat- 
 teries ; Captain Richardsone quickly perceived the danger and 
 rushing with his men to one of the guns, changed its position, 
 and gave the boys in blue a lively welcome with shell, which 
 they received with heroic fortitude, making a gallant fight for 
 the position. 
 
 They were, however, unable to stand the terrible shelling and 
 fled precipitately, seeking the protection of their gun boats, and 
 leaving in the hands of the victorious Confederates, their gal- 
 lant Lieutenant who had led the splendid sortie. 
 
 There were several other skirmishes at and near the bluff, but 
 no serious demonstrations. The spot however possesses features 
 of interest, and the fortifications enclosing the magnificent grove 
 will especially be viewed with curiosity by strangers. 
 
 Passing Causton's Bluff, the road makes a graceful detour and 
 at the end of the curve strikes Wilmington River, which is to be 
 spanned by a substantially constructed iron draw-bridge, two hun- 
 dred feet long, having two openings eighty-two feet each. From 
 this point on the island passengers not only have the invigorating 
 influence of the ocean breeze, but an uninterrupted view of the 
 broad expanse of water nearly to the sea buoy, and can enjoy the 
 sight of splendid steamships and craft of every description, inward 
 and outward bound. 
 
 The line running along McQueen's marsh, south of the south 
 channel of the river, with St. Augustine creek and Tybee Riv- 
 er on the south, commands a full view of VV^arsaw Sound. 
 
24 A HISTORICAL SKETCH 
 
 The scenery between St. Augustine and Larazetto creeks, 
 a distance of eight and one third miles, is kaleidoscopic in char- 
 acter, the glistening waters of the Savannah river, St. Augus- 
 tine creek and Tybee river on either side, dotted with white 
 winged saucy crafts, the stately steamships, the trim barks ; 
 while just beyond to the south the eye is pleased with the sight 
 of fertile islands clothed in beautiful verdure, attractive in 
 their lovely woods, and blossoming with the products of their fertile 
 soil — while to the north can plainly be seen Fort Oglethorpe and 
 Fort Pulaski. 
 
 After crossing Lazaretto creek, at King's landing the road con- 
 tinues on a circuit in rear of the front hills of the beach and 
 thence around the island, passing through the village of Tybee and 
 direct to the south end, where a magnificent view presents itself. 
 
 THE SOUTH END 
 
 Where the railroad has its terminus on the island, is one of the 
 most charming spots imaginable, and will be the site of the sec- 
 ond and large hotel. A number of handsome cottages will be 
 erected at this point in vicinity of the hotel, and there will be fa- 
 cilities provided for those who prefer river bathing to buffeting 
 with the vigorous surf. 
 
 A YACHTING COURSE. 
 
 At South end there is also a splendid course for a Regatta, 
 and the intention is to have several during the season. There are a 
 number of splendid yachts owned in Savannah, and yachting is a 
 favorite and popular pastime. A Regatta on Tybee inlet would 
 prove a magnificent sight, as from the hotel and cottages a com- 
 plete view can be had of the entire course. Doubtless those of 
 Savannah's northern visitors who have their private yachts will 
 bring their crafts with them, and sojourning at Tybee will have 
 every opportunity for enjoyment. 
 
 At present, the Ocean House capable of accommodating two 
 hundred guests, is the largest hotel on the Island and from its 
 broad verandas the broad ocean spreads out in illimitable space. 
 
OF TYBEE ISLAND, GA. 
 
 ANALYSES. 
 
 Below we give the several analyses of the water of the artesian 
 wells at Tybee. 
 
 CKRTIFICATE OF ANALYSIS. 
 
 New York, August 11, 18H0. 
 Sir:— The following are the results of my analysis of the sample of water submit- 
 ted to me for examination : 
 
 Appearance in two foot tube, Clear, very light Straw Color. 
 Odor, none. Taste, none. 
 
 Grains in one U. S. Gallon of 2:51 cubic ins. 
 
 Chlorine in Chlorides 0.7231 
 
 Chlorine equi v. to Sodium Chloride 1.192U 
 
 I'hosphates Faint traces 
 
 N itrites None 
 
 Nitrogen in Nitrates and Nitrites 0.0134 
 
 Free Ammonia 0.002(1 
 
 Albumenoid Ammonia '. 0.0056 
 
 Hardness equiv. to Carbonate of Lime J Jf f erBoiUng^. '. '.'['.'.'.[['.'.'.'.'.'.'.'. '. '. '. '. '. '. '. '. .fiTrS 
 
 Soda 1.34<>4 
 
 Potassa 0.1844 
 
 ]>ime 1.8142 
 
 Magnesia 1.0322 
 
 Oxide of Iron and Alumina 0.02.3;^. 
 
 Silica 2.41>02 
 
 Sulphuric Acid (Soz) 0.5t)91 
 
 Equiv. to Sulphate of Lime 0.%7f> 
 
 Organic and Volatile Matter 0.5832 
 
 Mineral Matter G.41.52 
 
 Total sohds at 110° c 6.99S4 
 
 This water is remarkably free from all evidence of contamination. 
 
 Respectfully, your obedient servant, C. F. Chandi-kr, Th. I). 
 
 To Mr. I). G. PuR^E, President Savannah and Tybee Railway Co., Savannah, Ga. 
 
 Chari.kston, So. C.\., Sept. 8th, 18.S5. 
 
 Material, a sample of " Artesian Water " received by express from 
 Capt. D. G. Purse, Savannah, Ga. 
 
 It contains of solid constituents, held in solution and left as residue on 
 evaporation, 11 -fVff grains to the U. S. gallon. 
 These consists in parts of Grains to U. S. gallon. 
 
 Magnesia 1.108 
 
 Lime i-749 
 
 Chlorine 0625 
 
 Sulphuric Acid 0.75S 
 
 Sihca 2682 
 
 Carbonic Acid 1.170 
 
 Alkaline Metals (not determined) 
 
 Nitrous and Nitric Acids in undeterminable traces Copper, Lead 
 
 and Iron none 
 
A HISTORICAL SKETCH 
 
 Its hardness is : 
 
 Temporary hardness (i. e. removed on boiling) 5° (English) 
 
 Permanent hardness (i. e. remaining after boiling) . . . 2>^° 
 Total hardness 7^0 <' 
 
 Which represents 6^4. grains to the English gallon of lime and magne- 
 sia salts ; or 5 grains to the U. S. gallon. 
 
 Analyzed by Wancklyn's method it contains of 
 
 Free Amonia xf ^ths \ of one part in one million parts 
 
 Albuminoid Ammonia . . . yf oths J jWhs. Total Ammonia. 
 
 Analyzed by Frankland's method, it contains of 
 Organic Carbon . . jVoths ) of one part in one milHon parts 
 Organic Nitrogen . -^^^ths j yVoths sum of organic carbon and nitrogen. 
 
 This should be regarded as a perfectly good and potable water any- 
 where ; it is certainly the best artesian water that I have obtained from 
 this section — and I have examined a large number. The content of chlo- 
 rides and of total solids left on evaporation, is small. The hardness is 
 not sufficient to be objectionable. And it is remarkably pure as regards 
 its content of organic matter. 
 
 Very respectly submitted, 
 
 Charles U. Shepard, Jr. 
 
 Baltimore, Sept. 21, '85. 
 Result of analysis of a sample of Artesian Well Water presented me 
 by Capt. D. G. Purse, Savannah, Ga. Marked: " From Tybee." 
 Appearance: Perfectly clear, colorless and odorless. 
 
 Free Ammonia Milligramme per Litre . 0.02 
 
 Albuminoid Ammonia 0.04 
 
 Solids, Grains per Imperial Gallon 1 1-7536 
 
 a. f. Cloride Sodium 1.6880 
 
 Sulphate " 1.6000 
 
 " Magnesium 0.0522 
 
 " Calcium 0.8100 
 
 Phosphate Calcium Traces 
 
 Carbonate Calcium 3.1232 
 
 " Sodium 1.2220 
 
 Silica 2.0350 
 
 Feccic oxide . . , . 0.0230 
 
 Volatile Solids 1.2002 
 
 The small amount of Chlorine, Free and Albuminoid Ammonia en- 
 titles the water according to Wanklyn to be classed fully as " Pure " 
 and I do not hestate to pronounce it a perfectly good wholesome drink- 
 ing water. Respectfully, 
 
 G. E. Leibig. 
 
OF TYBEE ISLAND, GA. 27 
 
 Athens, CzA., June 6tli, 1S85. 
 CapL D. G. Purse, Savannah, Ca.: 
 
 Dear Sir:— I have examined a sample of water from your Artesian 
 Well on Tybee Island and obtained the following result: 
 
 Solid Matters Dissolved. Grains per U. S. C^alion. 
 
 Carbonate of soda 6. 132.S 
 
 Chloride of sodium 1.4411 
 
 Sulphate of soda 2.126'* 
 
 Sulphate of lime 0.7542 
 
 Sulphate of magnesia 0.0563 
 
 Carbonate of iron 0.01S2 
 
 Silicate of soda 0.1232 
 
 Silica 0.0655 
 
 Organic matter and combined water 0.1022 
 
 Total solids dissolved 10.8198 
 
 Nitrates, free and albumenoid Ammonia practically none. 
 
 H. C. VVhitk. 
 Accompanying this analysis is the following letter from Prof. White, 
 which will be read with interest : 
 
 University of Georgia, Che.viical LARRATf)Rv, | 
 Athens, Ga., June 6th, 1885. < 
 
 Capt. D. G. Purse, Savan?iah, Ga.: 
 
 My Dear Sir — I enclose results of analysis of the Tybee artesian wa- 
 ter. You will observe that it closely resembles, in the character and 
 relative proportions of dissolved matters, the water from your artesian 
 well in Savannah, but differs from this in the total contents of solid mat- 
 ter. The Tybee water is consequently of rather better quality. This is 
 true artesian water of the very best quality. It is totally free of injuri- 
 ous matters, mineral or organic and is all that can be desired as an ex- 
 cellent drinking water. I have no hesitation in asserting my belief that 
 you have secured an unfailing supply of excellent, healthful water. 
 
 I cannot tell you how greatly pleased 1 am at your success — it ought 
 to revolutionize the sea coast country. 
 
 With kindest regards. Sincerely yours, 
 
 H. C. White. 
 
28 A HISTORICAL SKETCH 
 
 A MINIATURE GUIDE FOR THE CITY. 
 
 As of interest in this connection to travelers and visitors, a min- 
 iature guide is presented herewith giving the location and char- 
 acter of the various public buildings, the hotels, the steamship 
 wharves and railroad depots. 
 
 HOTELS. 
 
 Screven House, corner Bull and Congress Streets. 
 Pulaski House, corner Bryan and Bull Streets. 
 Marshall House, Broughton Street. 
 Harnett House, corner Bryan and Barnard Streets. 
 Pavilion Hotel, South Broad and Bull Streets. 
 Commercial House, Bryan Street, opposite the Market. 
 
 PUBLIC BUILDINGS. 
 
 City Exchange, Bay Street, head of Bull. 
 Cotton Exchange, Bay Street, head of Drayton. 
 Custom House, Bay Street, corner of Bull. 
 Post Office, Bay Street, corner of Drayton. 
 Court House, Bull Street, corner ol President and York. 
 Police Barracks, South Broad and Habersham Streets. 
 Theatre on Chippewa Square, Bull Street. 
 Telfair Academy, Telfair Place, Barnard Street. 
 Georgia Historal Society, Gaston and Whitaker Streets. 
 Telfair Hospital for Females, New Houston and Drayton 
 Streets. 
 
 Savannah Hospital, Huntingdon Street. 
 
 St. Joseph Infirmary, corner Taylor and Habersham Streets. 
 
 Masonic Temple, Liberty and Whittaker Streets. 
 
 Odd Fellows Hall, Barnard and State Street. 
 
 Chatham Academy, South Broad and Drayton Street. 
 
 Market Building, foot of Barnard Street. 
 
 Oglethorpe Club Rooms, Bull and Broughton Streets. 
 
OF TYBEE ISLAND, GA. 29 
 
 PRINCITAL CHURCHES. 
 
 Independent Presbyterian Church. South Broad Street. 
 
 First Presbyterian Church, Monterey Square. 
 
 Christ Church, Bull and Congress Streets. 
 
 Baptist Church, Chippewa Square. 
 
 Saint John's Church, Bull and Charlton Streets. 
 
 Lutheran Church, Bull and State Street. 
 
 Jewish Synagogue Mickva Israel, Bull and Gordon Street. 
 
 Trinity Methodist, Barnard and York Street. 
 
 Wesley Church, Abercorn and Drayton Streets. 
 
 Cathedral, Abercorn and Harris Street. 
 
 St. Patrick's, West Broad and Liberty, Street. 
 
 MONUMENTS. 
 
 In Johnson Square, opposite Pulaski and Screven Houses, is a 
 monument to General Nathaniel Green of Revolutionary fame. 
 
 In Wright Square, a monument to W. W. Gordon, first Presi- 
 dent of the Central Railroad. 
 
 In Monterey Square, monument to Count Pulaski, who was 
 killed at the seige of Savannah, 1779. 
 
 In the Park extension, monument to the Confederate dead. 
 
 In Madison Square, corner stone of monument, to Sergeant 
 Jasper, laid in 1879. The design has been selected and the shaft 
 will be erected about 22nd February, 1887. 
 
 OTHER POINTS OF INTEREST. 
 
 Immediately contiguous to Savannah, and within easy reach 
 by rail and shell road are Isle of Hope, Montgomery, Beaulieu, 
 White Bluff, and Thunderbolt. Each possesses peculiar attraccions 
 and until the development of Tybee, were the favorite resorts of 
 Savannah. Near Thunderbolt, and of access by street car line, 
 and fine shell road, is the Club House and grounds of the Sav- 
 annah Yacht Club. At this point is also a fine trotting Park, with 
 a half mile track. 
 
30 A HISTORICAL SKETCH 
 
 SAVANNAH. 
 
 The City is beautifully laid out and is one of the, handsomest 
 cities in America. 
 
 It abounds in numerous pretty parks, and possesses what no 
 other city in the Union has, a magnificent park of thirty acres, 
 almost now in the center of the city, with lovely walks, beautiful 
 shrubbery and an immense fountain, a fac-simile of the celebrated 
 fountain on the boulevard in Paris and which is the admiration of 
 all strangers. 
 
 This sketch is especially intended as descriptive of Tybee, its 
 resources, attractions and advantages as a resort both in summer 
 and winter and its contemplated railroad connection with the Forest 
 City and the above epitome of the principal objects and points of 
 interest to strangers is merely given as an appropriate supplement 
 to this narrative. 
 
 In conclusion, the author would say to those who seek the 
 Sunny South, for recreation and pleasure, health and knowledge 
 their pilgrimage will be incomplete without visiting Tybee — the 
 beautiful Isle, whose shores are washed by the mighty ocean on 
 one side, and the placid waters of the Savannah and its tributaries 
 on the other. 
 
 FINIS. 
 
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