Savannah served as the capital of Georgia during two distinct periods in the state's early history, playing a pivotal role in the colonial and formative years of what would become a major American state. Understanding when Savannah was the capital requires looking at the shifting political landscape of the 18th century, a time when governance structures were frequently moved as settlements grew and strategic needs changed.
Establishing Savannah as the Colonial Seat
Founded in 1733 by James Oglethorpe, Savannah was deliberately planned and established as the capital of the newly created Colony of Georgia. From its inception, the city functioned as the administrative and military center of the colony, a role it maintained for over a century. This central position was solidified officially when Georgia became a royal colony in 1752, transitioning from a trustee governorship to direct British control, with Savannah firmly established as the governmental heart of the territory.
The Move to Augusta and Temporary Returns
During the American Revolutionary War, the capital was temporarily relocated from Savannah for safety reasons. In 1778, as British forces advanced into Georgia, the revolutionary government moved the capital to Augusta. However, this was a strategic retreat rather than a permanent move. Savannah was recaptured by American and French forces in 1782, and the capital was swiftly returned to its original seat, reaffirming its status as the primary administrative hub of the state.
The Official State Capital Period (1786-1796)
Following the conclusion of the Revolutionary War and the formal establishment of the United States, Savannah's role as capital was codified in the early state constitution. From 1786 until 1796, Savannah served as the official capital of the state of Georgia. During this period, the city hosted the state legislature and governor's offices, cementing its position as the political and cultural epicenter of the new state.
The Transition and Lasting Legacy
The capital was officially moved from Savannah to Augusta in 1796, primarily to centralize the government away from the coast and its perceived vulnerability to foreign attack. This decision marked the end of Savannah's tenure as the seat of state government, but the city's historical significance remained undiminished. Savannah continued to thrive as a major port city and cultural center, preserving its unique urban planning and architectural heritage.
