Tomochichi Federal Building and United States Courthouse

The Tomochichi Federal Building is a three-story white marble courthouse with Renaissance Revival design and Italian-style facades facing Wright Square. The structure displays a bell tower and includes carved stonework throughout, giving it formal dignity in the downtown area.

Construction began in 1894 on land where Methodist founder John Wesley had preached in the 1730s. The building replaced a site of religious importance with a new federal courthouse structure.

The building was renamed in 2005 to honor Tomochichi, a Yamacraw chief who once helped English settlers and Creek tribes understand each other. This recognition reflects how the place remembers a figure who brought different communities together in the region's past.

The building is undergoing major renovation work that will continue through 2026. These ongoing works may affect access to certain downtown Savannah streets during the project period.

The exterior ornamentation includes carved faces representing architect Jeremiah O'Rourke and decorative elements depicting flowers and animals in marble. These personal details are often overlooked but add character to the building through designs carved directly into the stone.

Location: Savannah

Architects: Office of the Supervising Architect

GPS coordinates: 32.07806,-81.09306

Latest update: December 14, 2025 13:07