April 14, 2024
Coast-to-coast: San Francisco to Savannah (Part 14)
By Simon J. Lau
We made it to Savannah! Founded in 1733, it’s one of the oldest colonial settlements in the country and has played an important role throughout American history. Because of its location as a port, Savannah ended up being a prize in both the Revolutionary War and the Civil War. In 1779, American and French forces tried, and failed, to take it back from the British during the Siege of Savannah. Then, during the Civil War, it became a key Confederate stronghold until General Sherman captured it in 1864 on his famous March to the Sea.
Savannah was also one of the first American cities to use a grid system. Its layout is built around a series of squares, public parks spaced evenly throughout the city. The design was both practical and forward-thinking, giving residents green spaces to gather while also serving as military outposts for defense. It’s a layout that still defines the look and feel of the city today.
The most famous square in Savannah is Forsyth Park. Right in the heart of the city, it has landscaped gardens, a grand fountain, and oak trees draped in Spanish moss. I especially loved those oaks. Growing up, I was used to seeing plenty of them, but the Spanish moss here adds something different, giving the trees an even more dramatic appearance.
We also stopped by Service Brewing, a veteran-owned craft brewery just outside the historic district. The space had an industrial feel, high ceilings, exposed brick, and long communal tables, with taps pouring a solid lineup of local beers.
We ended up seated outside next to a lovely family of five, a husband, wife, and their three kids. It quickly became clear they leaned conservative. The husband was a military veteran and former police officer, and the wife was a homemaker who homeschooled their children. At one point, they even mentioned being skeptical of vaccines.
I’d describe myself as squarely moderate, so I’m not turned off by either conservatives or liberals. With that in mind, what stood out most in our conversation was their view on public education. They felt the local schools had become too progressive, which is why they chose to homeschool. The wife went on to describe the curriculum in detail and how much she enjoyed the time spent teaching her children.
I actually found the exchange refreshing, especially coming from San Francisco where conservative viewpoints are often brushed aside. What struck me most was how genuine they seemed in doing what they felt was best for their kids. People often reduce conservatives to MAGA caricatures, but this family didn’t fit that mold. Although I didn’t agree with some of their politics or their stance on vaccines, I could still respect the sincerity behind their choices.
For dinner, we ate at Treylor Park. The place has a quirky vibe, with a logo featuring an Airstream and even a mini Airstream set up right inside the bar. It was a fun touch and fit perfectly with the laid-back, slightly offbeat atmosphere. The whole place leaned into that playful theme.
On the other hand, my entree, a grilled apple pie sandwich with chicken, was a little confusing. I didn’t quite understand why it came out on plain white bread, which gave it more of a school cafeteria vibe than a restaurant dish. Fortunately, it tasted a lot better than it looked!
Finally, our route from St. Augustine to Savannah (180 miles or 290 km).
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