James Oglethorpe Monument

The James Oglethorpe Monument is a nine-foot bronze statue in Chippewa Square depicting the founder in 18th century military dress, standing on a gray-pink marble base decorated with lions. The figure faces south and is surrounded by four lion sculptures displaying shields with heraldic emblems and seals.

The monument was created in 1910 by sculptor Daniel Chester French and honors Oglethorpe, who founded the Province of Georgia and established Savannah in 1733 as a settlement for British debtors and refugees. This founding purpose shaped the social and economic foundations of the region for generations to come.

The monument sits in one of Savannah's historic squares where locals and visitors walk through daily, serving as a reminder of the city's colonial roots and founding vision. People often pause here to learn about the man who shaped this part of Georgia's early story.

The monument sits in an active city square with easy access and is visible from multiple angles for viewing and photography. Visitors can use the surrounding trees and walkways to comfortably view the statue from different vantage points.

The artwork was a gift from the Oglethorpe Monument Association, which gathered funds from patriotic groups and government sources to bring this important sculpture to life. The collaboration between private and public supporters proved essential to completing the work.