Exciting Historical Lecture Coming to Savannah
Hey there, Savannah! If you’re a history buff or just enjoy learning about our city’s fascinating past, you’re in for a treat! On October 10, the Historic Savannah Foundation (HSF) is hosting a special lecture titled “Revolutionary Savannah: The Story of 19 Revolutionary War Cannons Recovered from the Savannah River.” This event will feature Catherine Duffy, the Chief Curator of the Coastal Heritage Society, who will dive into the incredible discovery of 19 Revolutionary War-era cannons that were uncovered back in 2021.
Details of the Event
The gathering will take place at the HSF headquarters located at 321 E. York St. It will kick off with a delightful wine reception at 5:30 p.m. before the discussion begins at 6 p.m. Trust us; this is one event you won’t want to miss! Catherine will discuss how these cannons were found during the Savannah Harbor Expansion Project and tell us all about the conservation efforts that are currently underway. Think about it—these relics were sitting at the bottom of the river for nearly 240 years!
What’s So Special About These Cannons?
These 19 cannons (along with several other artifacts) make up one of the largest collections of Revolutionary War artillery ever retrieved from a single naval event. They are believed to be relics from the 1779 Siege of Savannah, a critical moment in the American Revolution. Imagine the stories these cannons could tell!
Catherine will not only highlight the history of the cannons but also go into detail about their origins and what they can teach us about Savannah’s role during the war. The artifacts are currently being worked on at the Conservation Research Laboratory at Texas A&M University, where they are undergoing an extensive process to ensure their preservation for future generations.
Upcoming Exhibit at Savannah History Museum
Speaking of exciting things coming down the pipeline, once the conservation process is complete, these fascinating pieces will be a part of a new core exhibition at the Savannah History Museum. The exhibit, titled Loyalists & Liberty: Savannah in the American Revolution, promises to provide a comprehensive look at our city’s involvement in the fight for independence.
According to HSF CEO Sue Adler, “A discovery of this magnitude has local, regional, and national significance.” Each cannon and artifact holds untold stories that add a rich layer of history to Savannah. This lecture is not just about cannons; it’s about connecting with our past.
Meet the Expert
Now, let’s talk a bit about Catherine Duffy. She’s a museum professional with over 15 years of experience in handling community-focused projects and exhibitions. Her accolades include prestigious awards like the AASLH Leadership in History Award of Excellence. Catherine earned her Master’s degree in Nonprofit Management and has worked with various institutions to shine a light on our collective history.
Future Lectures in the Series
And guess what? This is just one of many exciting lectures coming up in the HSF’s 2024 Lecture Series! Following Catherine’s talk, acclaimed local urban designer Christian Sottile and Matt West will discuss the “Renovation of Regina Coeli Hall at Cathedral of St. John the Baptist” on November 14.
If you’re interested in attending the lecture on October 10, it’s open to the public, but reservations are recommended as space is limited. Ticket prices are free for HSF members and just $15 for non-members. To secure your spot, you can email Kendall Graham at kgraham@myhsf.org or give her a call at 912-233-7787, ext. 109.
So mark your calendars, Savannah! Let’s come together to celebrate our rich history and learn a thing or two along the way. We can’t wait to see you there!
