Noble Jones was one of the 114 English colonists who came to Georgia with James Oglethorpe as part of an experiment in city planning. Savannah was to be new start for English debtors who would receive a town lot and a piece of land to farm. The city would also serve as a buffer between the English in South Carolina and the Spanish in Florida. Noble Jones was the only one of the original colonists who stayed in the area.
Jones built a small fortified house along the main river channel to Savannah and commanded a group of marines who patrolled the river. He received a royal grant for the land where he raised cattle and grew fruits and vegetables. A large mansion, where descendants still live, was built in 1828 by his grandson. His great-grandson planted the 400 live oaks that line the entrance road for 1 1/2 miles.
Most of the property is managed by the state but the mansion is private property and not opened for tours. A short trail leads to the ruins ( very little is left ) of the original house. Other trails meander through the woods with occasional views of the marsh. The visitor center has a short film and historical displays. The oak lined road is very picturesque.
The visitor center is accessible. The main trails are hard packed sand and fairly easy to roll along but watch for exposed roots. Lesser used trails are pretty rough with large roots.
RVs will fit in the bus lot which is close to the visitor center. Follow the signs. Park
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Great photo of the tree lined entrance. Savannah is one of our favorite area.
ReplyDeleteThis is the prettiest oak alley that we've seen. They plant new trees as needed so there aren't any gaps.
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