A Century of History
Savannah City Hall Centennial
1906-2006

City of Savannah
Research Library & Municipal Archives










A Century of History
Savannah City Hall Centennial, 1906-2006
































City of Savannah, Research Library & Municipal Archives
Savannah, Georgia

January 2006


ii



On the cover:
Postcard of City Hall, looking north on Bull Street from Johnson Square, circa 1922.
Private collection of Glenda E. A. Anderson.
Used with permission.

































City of Savannah, Research Library and Municipal Archives
City Hall, Room 103
Bay Street at Bull Street
P. O. Box 1027
Savannah, Georgia 31402
Telephone 912-651-6412
Fax 912-233-1992
www.savannahga.gov




A Century of History, Savannah City Hall Centennial, 1906-2006.
Prepared by Luciana M. Spracher, Archivist
City of Savannah, Research Library and Municipal Archives
January 2006

© Copyright 2006 by the City of Savannah, Georgia.
All rights reserved.



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City of Savannah Officials


Dr. Otis S. Johnson,
Mayor

Edna B. Jackson,
Mayor Pro Tem

ALDERMEN
Ellis P. Cook
Jeff Felser
Van R. Johnson, II
Clifton Jones, Jr.
Mary Osborne
Kenneth Sadler
Tony Thomas

Michael B. Brown,
City Manager

Christopher P. Morrill,
Bureau Chief,
Management & Financial Services

Glenda E. A. Anderson, Director
Luciana M. Spracher, Archivist
Research Library & Municipal Archives



The flag of the City of Savannah was designed by Cornelia Sams
Maclean (later Mrs. Willis Wilder) and adopted by City Council on
January 18, 1905 as the City’s official banner. The design includes
a field of white bordered by blue and red, with the City’s Coat of
Arms in the center surrounded by thirteen stars representing the
thirteen original colonies. As used in the flag, white denotes purity,
red represents courage, zeal and fervency, and blue signifies loyalty,
devotion, justice and truth.





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v




Table of Contents




Acknowledgements
Introduction
A Century of History:
vii
1
1906-1909
1910-1919
1920-1929
1930-1939
1940-1949
1950-1959
1960-1969
1970-1979
1980-1989
1990-1999
2000-2005
3
15
29
37
47
61
73
99
121
143
163

General Sources
Index
181
183












vi


vii





Acknowledgements



The City of Savannah would like to thank the following individuals and organizations for
generously sharing their time and historical collections for City Hall’s Centennial:

Frederick Baldwin
Dr. Roy Blackburn, III
Bull Street Main Library of the Live Oak Public Libraries
Darlington County, South Carolina Historical Commission
Georgia Historical Society
Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace
James Keating
Massie Heritage Interpretation Center
Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum
George Rody and Rody’s Music Enterprises, Inc.
Savannah College of Art & Design
Savannah Jewish Archives at the Georgia Historical Society
Savannah Morning News
Telfair Museum of Art
V. & J. Duncan Antique Maps & Prints
Irvin J. Warshaw
Doug Weathers
WTOC TV
Andy Young


The Research Library and Municipal Archives would also like to thank the following
City of Savannah departments:

Buildings and Grounds Department of the Leisure Services Bureau
Department of Cultural Affairs of the Leisure Services Bureau
Office of the Clerk of Council
Public Information Office
Tourism and Film Services Office


viii





Introduction




1
Constructed between 1903 and 1906, Savannah’s City Hall stands as a monument to the
progressive spirit of the City of Savannah during the early 1900s when the municipal
government strived to achieve “A Greater Savannah.” The City desired a larger home to
reflect the community’s prosperity and to give the growing government adequate
facilities with “a building for a century to come.” Local architect Hyman Wallace
Witcover designed a monumental Italian Renaissance Revival building in granite and
limestone for the City and the Savannah Contracting Company executed the design. On
January 2, 1906, Savannah’s City Hall was thrown open to the citizens of Savannah for
inspection. One writer from the Municipal Journal, of New York, declared he had
“never seen a city building better adapted to the uses for which it was intended.” City
Council held their first meeting in the new Council Chamber on January 3, 1906. In the
century since then, City Hall has served the local government and the community
faithfully, and stands as a symbol of the City’s progress and history.1

The following timeline traces Savannah’s City Hall through its first century of history,
beginning in 1906 and ending in December 2005. This timeline was prepared to
document City Hall’s history in preparation for its 2006 centennial anniversary, as well as
to serve as a research tool for future users. All information of pertinence found in the
research process was included. However, there may be additional events that were not
clearly documented and have slipped through the cracks of history. Therefore, this
should not be considered “everything” that ever happened in or to City Hall.

Each entry of the timeline has been prepared so that it could stand alone as an individual
article with unique sources and supporting images. Each entry is composed of five
elements to facilitate future use: type of entry; date; narrative; supporting visual
materials; and sources.

The type of entry indicates the subject matter of the entry based on seven categories.
“Archives” entries pertain to actions and events related to the storage, preservation, use
and disposal of municipal records. “Artifacts” entries provide information on artifacts
currently stored or displayed in the building, or those that were once in the building.
“Events” is a broad category that covers any important or interesting event that took
place in, or in the immediate vicinity of, City Hall and could include visitors, social
functions, awards, exhibits, demonstrations and protests, anniversary celebrations, or
movies which featured the building. “Images” of the building appear when an

1 For more information on the construction of Savannah’s City Hall see The Birth of City Hall, 1903-1906, Savannah
City Hall Centennial, 1906-2006 (Savannah, Georgia: City of Savannah, Research Library and Municipal Archives,
2006).

Savannah City Hall Centennial, 1906 ~ 2006

City of Savannah, Research Library and Municipal Archives
2
interesting or particularly good image of the building was found, but no additional
information supports a detailed narrative. “Municipal” entries pertain to changes and
growth of the municipal government of the City that have some bearing on the use of
City Hall, for instance departments moving in or out of the building, new City programs
for employees, or items related to a City Hall employee. “Politics” refers to events or
changes in Savannah’s political climate or Savannah’s City Council that led to an
important event occurring in City Hall, for instance the first female mayor and first
African American mayor. “Structure” entries have the most direct bearing on the
physical and aesthetic changes that occurred in City Hall over the past 100 years,
including renovations, repairs, changes to original details, handicapped accessibility, and
master plans.

The date includes the year, month and day of the entry to the greatest degree possible.
Some entries span several months, or even years. Research for some entries did not
provide specific dates only general time frames (year or month), these entries were placed
at the beginning of the year or the month they relate to before those with specific dates.
The narrative is the meat of the entry, including a description of the event and all
pertinent dates, persons and departments involved. Entries include supporting visual
materials (if available and/or known). Each narrative is followed by citations for the
supporting sources in a smaller font size.

A comprehensive bibliography of this document has not been prepared, since each entry
is fully cited within the body of the document. A listing of general sources, not
specifically cited within the entries, has been supplied at the end of this volume.





A Century of History
1906 ~ 1909



3

Postcard of City Hall and Bull Street, n.d.
V. & J. Duncan Antique Maps and Prints, Savannah, Georgia.
Used with permission.

Structure/Final Payments
1906
During 1906, the first full year City Hall was open for business, the final payments on the building and its
furnishings were made totaling $63,484. In completing his 1906 annual report, Mayor Herman Myers
reflected on the success of the new building:
Of the new City Hall it is not necessary to make more than a passing reference. We can
justly regard it as one of the monuments of this administration. Visitors from all parts of
the country have, during the past twelve months, praised it. Not only has it given the
municipal government a home worthy of a city of Savannah’s importance, but the
building of the hall out of the city’s regular funds has been an excellent advertisement for
the city’s financial condition and has indicated to the world Savannah’s spirit of
determination to advance at least in keeping with the progress of its sister cities, if not to
excel them in many ways.
Report of the Hon. Herman Myers, Mayor…of the City of Savannah, Georgia, for the Year Ending December 31st, 1906. Savannah:
Braid & Hutton, 1906. p22-23, 28.
Savannah City Hall Centennial, 1906 ~ 2006

City of Savannah, Research Library and Municipal Archives
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Events/First Flag at Half Staff & First Closing of Offices
1906 June 17

On June 17, 1906, the flag over City Hall was lowered to half staff noting the death of former Savannah
mayor Rufus Ezekiel Lester (1837-1906). This is the first documented instance of City Hall observing a
death through the lowering of the flag and the closing of City Hall offices for a funeral, as specified in a
special resolution of the Committee of the Whole adopted by City Council on June 19, 1906. At the time
of his death, Lester (mayor of the City of Savannah, January 22, 1883-January, 21 1889) was residing in
Washington, D. C. and serving as Representative of the 1st Georgia District. He sustained fatal injuries on
the evening of Friday, June 15th, after falling through a skylight in the roof of his apartment building.
Lester suffered multiple breaks, fractures, a dislocated shoulder, and shock before passing away around
6:00 pm on Saturday, June 16, 1906. Members of the Lester family and a delegation of Congress
accompanied Lester’s remains back to Savannah, arriving via train on June 19, 1906. The former mayor’s
body was taken to St. John’s Episcopal Church where it laid in state, under the watch of an honor guard of
the Confederate Veterans Association, until the funeral in the afternoon. The current Mayor, Aldermen,
and City officials attended the funeral in a body, meeting first at City Hall and then marching together to
the church.
“Caused Deep Sorrow in Savannah.” Savannah Morning News (17 June 1906) 1:1.
“Funeral of Col. Rufus E. Lester.” Savannah Morning News (18 June 1906) 8:3.
Larner, R. M. “After Brave Fight Colonel Lester Dies.” Savannah Morning News (17 June 1906) 1:1.
“Resolution of the Committee of the Whole” (19 June 1906). Report of the Hon. Herman Myers, Mayor…of the City of Savannah,
Georgia, for the Year Ending December 31st, 1906. Savannah: Braid & Hutton, 1906. p382-383.
“Special Council Meeting To-Day.” Savannah Morning News (19 June 1906) 12:5.
“Veterans Will Guard Remains.” Savannah Morning News (19 June 1906) 12:1.

Structure/Landscaping
1907

During 1907, the Park and Tree Commission placed two bay trees in the portico above the main entrance
on Bay Street, “and they add a touch of life to the building.”
Report of the Hon. Geo. W. Tiedeman, Mayor…of the City of Savannah, Georgia for the Year Ending December 31, 1907. Savannah:
1907. p227.

Structure/Vault Ventilation
1907-1908

On January 29, 1908, City Council appropriated $350 to the Committee on City Lots and Opening Streets
for installing ventilation in the permanent record vault in City Hall’s basement. In 1907, the Engineering
Department had examined the vaults and prepared a plan to improve the ventilation. During 1908, City
Engineer J. W. Howard prepared specifications for the system and supervised its installation with City Hall
Custodian Ferguson. The final cost was only $273, well below the original appropriation. In his annual
report for 1908, Engineer Howard reported that the ventilation system had “proven satisfactory.”
“Much Routine Business Before Council.” Savannah Morning News (30 January 1908) 8:4.
Official Proceedings of City Council (29 January 1908) 371. City of Savannah, Clerk of Council’s Office, Savannah, Georgia.
Report of the Hon. Geo. W. Tiedeman, Mayor…of the City of Savannah, Georgia for the Year Ending December 31, 1907. Savannah:
1907. p201-202, 213.
Second Annual Report of Hon. Geo. W. Tiedeman Mayor…of the City of Savannah, Georgia for the Year Ending December 31, 1908.
Savannah: 1908. p149, 179.
A Century of History, 1906 ~ 1909
January 2006
5
Structure/Fire Alarm System
1907-1909

During 1907, work on the under-ground fire alarm system, superintended by W. D. Claiborne, was
completed with the cable terminating in City Hall. At the end of the year, Superintendent Claiborne
reported, “So far the under-ground System has given perfect satisfaction.” In 1909, a new charging station
for the system was installed in City Hall in a fireproof room, including a 12-circuit automatic switchboard
and three double battery racks.
Report of the Hon. Geo. W. Tiedeman, Mayor…of the City of Savannah, Georgia for the Year Ending December 31, 1907. Savannah:
1907. p125.
Third Annual Report of Hon. Geo. W. Tiedeman Mayor…of the City of Savannah, Georgia for the Year Ending December 31, 1909.
Savannah: 1909. p106, 139.

Artifacts/Myers Portrait
1907 March 12-13

Sometime between 6:30 in the evening of March 12, 1907 and 9 o’clock in the morning of March 13, 1907,
an unidentified person slashed the portrait of former mayor Herman Myers hanging in the Council
Chamber. The oil portrait, painted by Ambrose DeBarra MacNeil in 1905, and presented by Myers to the
City at the first City Council meeting held in the new City Hall, depicts an almost life-size image of Myers
standing next to a table. The painting was disfigured by two slashes across the face in an x-pattern by a
knife or some sharp instrument. Within thirty minutes of the discovery of the defacement by Messenger of
Council Charles Gradot, Mayor George Tiedeman placed the investigation in the hands of Detectives
Murphy and Umbach.


Mayor Herman Myers, oil portrait painted by Ambrose DeBarra MacNeil, 1905. Savannah City Hall, Council Chamber
Photographed by L. Spracher, 2005 for City of Savannah Research Library & Municipal Archives.
Used with permission.

Throughout the day, a steady flow of spectators visited the Council Chamber to view the damage. Neyle
Colquitt, secretary to the mayor, temporarily repaired the portrait by pasting paper to the backside to hold
the edges of the canvas together. “Before the flaps of canvas were pasted back in place…the appearance of
the slashed face was ghastly.”
A special meeting of Council was called for that very afternoon at 1 o’clock during which Council resolved
to offer a reward of $500 for the arrest of the guilty party and to restore or replace the painting at the
Savannah City Hall Centennial, 1906 ~ 2006

City of Savannah, Research Library and Municipal Archives
6
expense of the City. Alderman J. D. Epps and Mr. Charles P. Rossignol upped the reward with an
additional $50 each. Alderman Frank C. Battey spoke out about the vandalism:
I think it is the most outrageous piece of vandalism which has come to my attention since
the visit of Sherman’s army. Words fail me in expressing my contempt and horror at the
act of the miserable miscreant who committed this crime. I cannot imagine any
punishment too severe for him.
Mayor George W. Tiedeman told the local newspaper that Battey’s remarks reflected the feelings of
Council and wrote Mr. Myers expressing his regret over the incident. Myers responded with gratification
for the steps taken by Council.


Savannah Newspaper Headlines, March 13, 1907.
“Picture of Former Mayor Herman Myers Mutilated as it Hung in Council Chamber.”
Savannah Evening Press (13 Mar 1907).
Used with permission.

Unfortunately, the culprit was never apprehended and the slashing of Herman Myers portrait remains a
mystery. The damage was immediately repaired by Mr. G. N. Thonnesen for about $50, paid for by the
City, and the portrait was re-hung in the Council Chamber by the end of April 1907.
“G. N. Thonnesen will Restore Myers Picture.” Savannah Morning News (17 Mar 1907) 24:3.
“Keys to Chamber are Collected.” Savannah Morning News (15 Mar 1907) 12.
“Mutilation of Ex-Mayor’s Picture.” Savannah Morning News (14 Mar 1907) 12:3.
“Picture of Former Mayor Herman Myers Mutilated as it Hung in Council Chamber.” Savannah Evening Press (13 Mar 1907).

Structure/City Hall Custodian
1907 July 31

On July 31, 1907, City Council placed authority over the Custodian of City Hall, and all purchases
connected with the position, in the hands of the Committee on City Lots and Opening Streets, then under
the chairmanship of Alderman John H. H. Entelman, “there being many matters connected with the care of
the hall which would come within the province of a committee of Council.” The Mayor’s powers to
appoint and dismiss the Custodian of City Hall, provided for under the resolution adopted in December
1905 when the building was first occupied, were retained.
Official Proceedings of City Council (31 Jul 1907) 318. City of Savannah, Clerk of Council’s Office, Savannah, Georgia.
Report of the Hon. Geo. W. Tiedeman, Mayor…of the City of Savannah, Georgia for the Year Ending December 31, 1907. Savannah:
1907. p21, 448.
A Century of History, 1906 ~ 1909
January 2006
7
Structure/Elevator Repairs
1907 October 9
On October 9, 1907, City Council authorized an expenditure of $143.60 for a complete set of cables for the
City Hall elevator.
Official Proceedings of City Council (9 Oct 1907) 336. City of Savannah, Clerk of Council’s Office, Savannah, Georgia.

Structure/Roof Repaired
1908-1912

Within weeks of first opening, the City Hall roof began experiencing problems with heavy rains and
backed-up gutters. The roof became a recurring issue in the ongoing maintenance and improvement of the
building. In 1908, under the supervision of City Engineer J. W. Howard, the roof over the City Engineer’s
office was repaired in an effort to prevent routine leaks which had damaged the ceilings, walls and
equipment. In 1910, City Council budgeted $750 for repairs to the roof for the following year. During
1912, Engineer Howard surveyed the roof, estimated the square footage, and prepared specifications for a
new copper roof.
Fifth Annual Report of Hon. Geo. W. Tiedeman Mayor…of the City of Savannah, Georgia for the Year Ending December 31st 1911.
Savannah: 1911. p176, 194, 206.
Report of the Hon. Geo. W. Tiedeman, Mayor…of the City of Savannah, Georgia for the Year Ending December 31, 1907. Savannah:
1907. p218.
Second Annual Report of Hon. Geo. W. Tiedeman Mayor…of the City of Savannah, Georgia for the Year Ending December 31, 1908.
Savannah: 1908. p149.
Third [Fourth] Annual Report of Hon. Geo. W. Tiedeman Mayor…of the City of Savannah, Georgia for the Year Ending December
31, 1910. Savannah: 1910. p4.

Municipal/New Departments
1908

On February 12, 1908, City Council adopted an ordinance creating the new position of City Bacteriologist,
under the Board of Sanitary Commissioners and the Health Officer, as “an aid to the control of Public
Health and for the study of problems in sanitary science.” The Board was authorized to conduct a
competitive examination and hire a bacteriologist. The ordinance also stipulated that the bacteriologist
would have and keep an office in City Hall and Council approved a special expenditure of $6,000 for a lab.
On April 15, 1908, the examination was held simultaneously in Savannah in the City Hall, New York City,
Chicago, Washington D. C., and New Orleans. Dr. V. H. Bassett, former Resident Pathologist and
Assistant Superintendent of the Milwaukee County Hospital, who tested in Chicago, was selected and
began work by establishing the new lab on the third floor of City Hall in a suite of rooms adjacent to the
Health Officer. The Bacteriologist’s offices included a preparation room, photographic dark room and
laboratory room and were set up for bacteriological, chemical and pathological examinations and
experiments.

The equipment for bacteriological work is quite complete, including an autoclave, dry
sterilizer, Arnold sterilizer, a large incubator, a small incubator, and the necessary
glassware and supplies. The incubators are provided with Roux’ metallic therm-
regulators, and with Koch’s safety burners, the connections under the incubator being
metallic, thus avoiding danger from fire. The equipment for chemical analysis is less
complete, but is sufficient for present needs, including a large Babcock centrifugal
machine for the determination of fat in milk and cream…. A photographic outfit has
already been secured and used in preparing records of inspections and in making
records of unusual pathological conditions….

Savannah City Hall Centennial, 1906 ~ 2006

City of Savannah, Research Library and Municipal Archives
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Bacteriologist’s City Hall Laboratory, 1908.
Second Annual Report of Hon. Geo. W. Tiedeman Mayor…of the City of Savannah, Georgia
for the Year Ending December 31, 1908. Savannah: Savannah City Council, 1908.
City of Savannah, Research Library & Municipal Archives, Savannah, Georgia.
Used with permission.

Miss Jane Van De Vrede, Dr. Bassett’s former laboratory assistant at the Milwaukee County Hospital in
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, was hired as his assistant in Savannah and assisted in record keeping and managing
the work load.


Bacteriologist’s Office, City Hall, 1908.
Second Annual Report of Hon. Geo. W. Tiedeman Mayor…of the City of Savannah, Georgia
for the Year Ending December 31, 1908. Savannah: Savannah City Council, 1908.
City of Savannah, Research Library & Municipal Archives, Savannah, Georgia.
Used with permission.

In the first three months of operation, the lab conducted 405 tests, including those for diphtheria, typhoid
fever, malaria, rabies, hookworm, and tests on water, milk, food and ice. The Bacteriologist distributed kits
to local pharmacies for doctors to pick up and collect samples. They could then drop off the collected
samples at the lab to be tested. The testing services were free of charge to the doctors.
Second Annual Report of Hon. Geo. W. Tiedeman Mayor…of the City of Savannah, Georgia for the Year Ending December 31, 1908.
Savannah: Savannah City Council, 1908. p188-190, 216-218, 223, 227, 366-367, 446.
A Century of History, 1906 ~ 1909
January 2006
9
Events/Automobiles
1908 March 18-19



“Procession in front of City Hall,” c.18-19 March 1908.
MS 2168 Julian Quattlebaum Collection, Box 2, Photo Album, Picture #26965.
Georgia Historical Society, Savannah, Georgia.
Used with permission.

On March 18 and 19, 1908, Savannah witnessed the first of the “Great Savannah Races,” during which
automobile drivers from around the world participated in a grand prix auto race for the Vanderbilt Cup on a
new twenty-five mile race course laid out southwest of the city proper. Mayor George W. Tiedeman
allowed most of the City employees to join thousands of spectators in cheering on the exciting events,
though a skeletal staff remained at City Hall and kept all the departments officially open. “One of the more
interesting sites on the streets of Savannah during the races was automobile processions…. They would
form in the morning and drive to their positions.” One such procession was photographed in front of City
Hall with members of the Racing Board and the Savannah Automobile Club posing.
Automobile races returned to Savannah on November 25-26, 1908 for the American Grand Prize Race
sponsored by the Automobile Club of America.


Original City of Savannah flag draped across City Hall, photograph by Richard Stratton of Philadelphia, November 1908.
VM 1361PH Georgia Historical Society Photograph Collection, Box 4, Folder 2, Item 0597.
Georgia Historical Society, Savannah, Georgia.
Used with permission.

“City Employes [sic] will be Able to See Races.” Savannah Morning News (18 March 1908) 16:2.
Savannah City Hall Centennial, 1906 ~ 2006

City of Savannah, Research Library and Municipal Archives
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Russell, Preston and Barbara Hines. Savannah, A History of Her People Since 1733. Savannah: Frederic C. Beil, 1992. p159.
Wheeler, Frank T. The Savannah Races. Dover, NH: Arcadia Publishing, 1998. p23.

Municipal/New Departments
1909

In 1909, the Georgia Medical Society relocated all its books from the Georgia Historical Society’s
Hodgson Hall to City Hall in order to create more room for the Children’s Department of the Public
Library at Hodgson Hall. The medical books were placed in a room adjacent to the new Bacteriological
Laboratory, creating a new medical library in City Hall.
Third Annual Report of Hon. Geo. W. Tiedeman Mayor…of the City of Savannah, Georgia for the Year Ending December 31, 1909.
Savannah: 1909. p379.

Events/Myers Funeral
1909 March 25-26













Mayor Herman Myers, circa 1900.
Annual Report of Hon. Herman Myers, Mayor…of the City of Savannah, Ga.,
for the Year Ending December 31, 1900… Savannah: Savannah City Council, 1901.
City of Savannah, Research Library and Municipal Archives, Savannah, Georgia.
Used with permission.


On March 25 and 26, 1909, the body of former mayor Herman Myers laid in state in City Hall beneath his
own oil portrait hanging on the southern wall of the Council Chamber. Myers, Savannah’s first Jewish
mayor, passed away on March 24, 1909 after a lengthy illness. On the same day, City Council adopted a
special resolution on his death calling for the flag to be lowered to half staff, City Hall to be draped in
mourning, the City offices to be closed during the funeral, and Myers’ body return to City Hall one final
time.

“The funeral cortege with the remains of Hon. Herman Myers arriving at the City Hall” (25 Mar 1909).
JVM 005 Congregation Mickve Israel Visual Materials Collection, Oversized Box 5, Album 1 “In Memorium.”
Savannah Jewish Archives, at the Georgia Historical Society, Savannah, Georgia.
Used with permission.
A Century of History, 1906 ~ 1909
January 2006
11
On March 25, 1909, Myers’ casket was placed in the Council Chamber, surrounded by beautiful flowers,
with police sentinels to guard as citizens and friends paid their respect in a steady stream until the doors
were closed at 9 o’clock in the evening. “Thousands of persons from every walk in life and all ages went
to the City Hall to get a last look at the man who in life did so much for Savannah.” Visitors were again
permitted on the 26th, until the remains of the popular mayor were removed from City Hall around 1
o’clock in the afternoon and escorted to Temple Mickve Israel for the funeral, followed by burial at
Bonaventure Cemetery. The City of Savannah had a large floral arrangement depicting the official flag of
the City sent to the funeral in Myers’ honor.


“The remains of Hon. Herman Myers lying in state at the City Hall” (25 Mar 1909).
JVM 005 Congregation Mickve Israel Visual Materials Collection, Oversized Box 5, Album 1 “In Memorium.”
Savannah Jewish Archives, at the Georgia Historical Society, Savannah, Georgia.
Used with permission.

In his eulogy, Rabbi George Solomon used the City Hall building to highlight Myers’ character and
ensured that this beautiful building would forever be a memorial to the man who had worked so hard to
have it built:
At the foot of our most beautiful thoroughfare, and in the very heart of our most
important business center, the massive masonry of its granite walls typifying the solidity
of his achievements, the enduring strength of his incorruptible integrity—the chaste
elegance of its graceful symmetry and the seductive loneliness of its alluring approaches,
symbolic of the genial sunniness which drew men irresistibly to him, stands our City Hall,
monument at once of the winning fascination and lasting charm, not only of our city, but
of Herman Myers as well.

On April 21, 1909, a special committee appointed to prepare a resolution concerning the late
mayor submitted their report to Council reiterating Rabbi Solomon’s views and including City Hall among
Myers’ greatest accomplishments in his work with the City:
The new City Hall, which has always been regarded as a very great success from a
financial and architectural standpoint, was erected without additional taxation, and
without injury to the departments of the city, or the retarding of the city’s general
progress.
“Herman Myers’ Funeral To-Day.” Savannah Morning News (26 March 1909) 12:1.
“Herman Myers Laid to Rest.” Savannah Morning News (27 March 1909) 12:4.
“Herman Myers Passes Away.” Savannah Morning News (25 March 1909) 12:2.
Savannah City Hall Centennial, 1906 ~ 2006

City of Savannah, Research Library and Municipal Archives
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“Report of committee appointed to submit resolutions concerning the late Hon. Herman Myers” (21 April 1909). Third Annual Report
of Hon. Geo. W. Tiedeman Mayor…of the City of Savannah, Georgia for the Year Ending December 31, 1909. Savannah: 1909. p570.
“Resolution on the death of Herman Myers” (24 March 1909). Third Annual Report of Hon. Geo. W. Tiedeman Mayor…of the City of
Savannah, Georgia for the Year Ending December 31, 1909. Savannah: 1909. p560-561.

Events/President Taft Visit
1909 November 4-6

On the evening of November 4, 1909, President William Howard Taft arrived in Savannah, via the Central
of Georgia Railroad, for a two-day visit at the tail end of his tour of the United States during the first year
of his term. He stayed at the home of General W. W. Gordon on the corner of Oglethorpe Avenue and Bull
Street. An elaborate banquet was given that night by the City of Savannah in honor of the President at the
De Soto Hotel. Each guest received numerous souvenirs of the event, including a solid gold scarf pin with
the seal of the City of Savannah, a small dinner plate hand-painted in gold with the President’s monogram,
and cigars with a picture of the President on the cigar band and individually wrapped in pouches with the
name of each guest embossed on the outside.


“Banquet tendered Honorable William H. Taft President of the United States by the City of Savannah November 4th 1909” (program).
Myrick, Shelby, Sr. “Savannah’s Dinner for President Taft.” Savannah Morning News Magazine (3 March 1959) 8.
Vertical Files: Savannah History, 1900-1929.
Live Oak Public Library, Bull Street Branch, Savannah, Georgia.
Used with permission.

The following day, labeled “Taft Day” by the Savannah Morning News, numerous events were held
throughout the city, including a concert by the Savannah City Band in Wright Square, acrobatic
performances by the Six Flying Banvards in Forsyth Park Extension, flyovers of airships, inspection of
torpedo boats off the Barnard Street dock, and a parade with President Taft driven through the city’s streets,
surely passing by City Hall which was decked out for the occasion with American flags and bunting. Taft
left Savannah from Union Station on November 6, 1909 at 2 o’clock in the afternoon.

A Century of History, 1906 ~ 1909
January 2006
13

City Hall decorated for the visit of President Taft, November 1909.
VM 1374 Girard Photograph Collection, Box 1, Folder 15, Item 03.
Georgia Historical Society, Savannah, Georgia.
Used with permission.



President Taft in automobile in front of the Gordon Home, November 1909.
Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace, Savannah, Georgia.
Used with permission.

“All Savannah Host to President Taft.” Savannah Morning News (6 November 1909) 12:1.
DeBolt, Margaret Wayt. Savannah: A Historical Portrait (3rd Edition). Gloucester Point, VA: Hallmark Publishing Company, 2001.
p128.
“Fine Fireworks Seen in Park.” Savannah Morning News (5 November 1909) 16:6.
Myrick, Shelby, Sr. “Savannah’s Dinner for President Taft.” Savannah Morning News Magazine (8 March 1959) 8.
“Other Presidential Visits.” Savannah Morning News (12 November 1933) 6A:2.
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A Century of History
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15

Postcard of City Hall and Bull Street, n.d.
1361PC Georgia Historical Society Postcard Collection, Box 7.
Georgia Historical Society, Savannah, Georgia.
Used with permission.

Events/Aldermen Funerals
1910

On the morning of January 3, 1910, Alderman Abram Vetsburg died suddenly of lung congestion at the
Oglethorpe Sanitarium. Born in Bavaria in 1845, Vetsburg immigrated to the United States when he was
only fifteen years old. After moving to Savannah, he became engaged in the mercantile business. In 1900,
he was elected to the Board of County Commissioners. He was then elected to Savannah City Council and
was sworn in on January 25, 1909. Less than one year later, Vetsburg met his untimely end while still in
office. In his honor, City Council resolved to close City Hall offices during the funeral, lower the flag to
half staff, and drape the City Hall building in mourning for thirty days. Vetsburg’s funeral, attended by
City Council in a body, was held at Temple Mickve Israel on January 4th, followed by interment at Laurel
Grove Cemetery.
On December 18, 1910, Alderman Michael J. Kavanaugh, sworn in on the same day as Vetsburg, passed
away. The same measures taken to honor Vetsburg were followed, including draping the City Hall and
lowering the flag to half staff.
“Abraham Vetsburg Dies Suddenly.” Savannah Morning News (4 January 1910) 12:6.
“Council Will Attend Funeral in Body.” Savannah Morning News (4 January 1910) 12:6.
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“Resolution on the Death of Alderman Abram Vetsburg” (3 January 1910). Third [Fourth] Annual Report of Hon. Geo. W. Tiedeman
Mayor…of the City of Savannah, Georgia for the Year Ending December 31, 1910. Savannah: 1910. p511.
“Resolution on the Death of Alderman Michael J. Kavanaugh” (19 December 1910). Third [Fourth] Annual Report of Hon. Geo. W.
Tiedeman Mayor…of the City of Savannah, Georgia for the Year Ending December 31, 1910. Savannah: 1910. p533.

Municipal/New Departments
1910 January 1
On January 1, 1910, the new headquarters for the Associated Charities officially opened in City Hall.
During the next twelve months, its first year of operation, the Associated Charities furnished 323 meals to
the homeless, visited 205 families with cases of sickness other than consumption, and worked with 55 cases
of tuberculosis. The Police Department worked with the charity to refer those in need to the office in City
Hall.
Third Annual Report of Hon. Geo. W. Tiedeman Mayor…of the City of Savannah, Georgia for the Year Ending December 31, 1909.
Savannah: 1909. p16.
Third [Fourth] Annual Report of Hon. Geo. W. Tiedeman Mayor…of the City of Savannah, Georgia for the Year Ending December
31, 1910. Savannah: 1910. p373, 375-376, 381.

Events/Parade
1910 April 7

On April 7, 1910, the Greeks of Savannah celebrated the 80th anniversary of the nation of Greece’s
independence from Turkish rule. The anniversary was marked throughout the day with religious and civic
events, including a parade, addresses, banquet and dance. The previous day, George Peters came before
Council representing the Greek community to request Council to review the parade before City Hall.
Council accepted and the following day, the parade, including most of Savannah’s Greek population,
passed in front of several members of Council on the steps of City Hall. For the occasion, from the rooftop
of City Hall, the “Greek emblem was flying to the breeze from the flagpole directly beneath the flag of the
United States.”
“Communication from sundry Greeks by George Peters” (6 April 1910). Third [Fourth] Annual Report of Hon. Geo. W. Tiedeman
Mayor…of the City of Savannah, Georgia for the Year Ending December 31, 1910. Savannah: 1910. p544.
“Grecian Flag is Flung to Breeze.” Savannah Morning News (8 April 1910) 6:4.

Structure/City Hall Custodian
1912

In 1912, after six years, R. W. Ferguson was succeeded by J. Chris Werntz as Custodian of City Hall.
Werntz would fill the position for several years to come, at least until 1917.
Annual Message to City Council of Hon. Wallace J. Pierpont Mayor…of the City of Savannah, Georgia Year Ending December 31,
1915. Savannah: 1915.
Annual Message to City Council of Hon. Wallace J. Pierpont Mayor…of the City of Savannah, Georgia Year Ending December 31,
1916. Savannah: 1916.
Annual Message to City Council of Hon. Wallace J. Pierpont Mayor…of the City of Savannah, Georgia Year Ending December 31,
1917. Savannah: 1917.
Fifth Annual Report of Hon. Geo. W. Tiedeman Mayor…of the City of Savannah, Georgia for the Year Ending December 31st 1911.
Savannah: 1911.
Messages to City Council of Hon. Richard J. Davant Mayor…of the City of Savannah Georgia for the Year Ending December 31st
1913. Savannah: 1913.
Report of the Hon. Geo. W. Tiedeman, Mayor…of the City of Savannah, Georgia for the Year Ending December 31, 1907. Savannah:
1907.
Report of the Hon. Herman Myers, Mayor…of the City of Savannah, Georgia, for the Year Ending December 31st, 1906. Savannah:
Braid & Hutton, 1906.
A Century of History, 1910 ~ 1919
January 2006
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Second Annual Message to City Council of Hon. Richard J. Davant Mayor…of the City of Savannah, Georgia Year Ending December
31, 1914. Savannah: 1914.
Second Annual Report of Hon. Geo. W. Tiedeman Mayor…of the City of Savannah, Georgia for the Year Ending December 31, 1908.
Savannah: 1908.
Sixth Annual Report of Hon. Geo. W. Tiedeman Mayor…of the City of Savannah, Georgia for the Year Ending December 31st 1912.
Savannah: 1912.
Third Annual Report of Hon. Geo. W. Tiedeman Mayor…of the City of Savannah, Georgia for the Year Ending December 31, 1909.
Savannah: 1909.
Third [Fourth] Annual Report of Hon. Geo. W. Tiedeman Mayor…of the City of Savannah, Georgia for the Year Ending December
31, 1910. Savannah: 1910.

Structure/City Hall Custodian
1913 January 27
On January 27, 1913, City Council passed an ordinance placing the Custodian of City Hall back under the
direct supervision and control of the Mayor rather than the Committee on City Lots and Opening Streets. A
month later, Custodian J. Chris Werntz presented a report on the building’s furniture to Council at the
March 5, 1913 meeting.
“An Ordinance to Regulate the Office of Custodian of the City Hall…” (27 January 1913). Messages to City Council of Hon. Richard
J. Davant Mayor…of the City of Savannah Georgia for the Year Ending December 31st 1913. Savannah: 1913. p549-550.
Official Proceedings of City Council (5 Mar 1913) 27. City of Savannah, Clerk of Council’s Office, Savannah, Georgia.

Structure/Inventory
1913 December
In December of 1913, auditors Marwick, Mitchell, Peat and Company appraised all City lands and
buildings, including the City Hall property. The City Hall lot on Bay at Bull Street, measuring 120 feet by
90 feet, was valued at $120,000, and the building was appraised at $220,000. An inventory of all furniture
and fixtures in City Hall included typewriters, filing cabinets, adding machines, and a water cooler. The
Gamewell Fire Alarm System equipment located in City Hall was worth an estimated $4,000.
Messages to City Council of Hon. Richard J. Davant Mayor…of the City of Savannah Georgia for the Year Ending December 31st
1913. Savannah: 1913. p116, 119, 121-122, 329.

Structure/Elevator
1914 November 11

On November 11, 1914, the Finance Committee of City Council authorized the Purchase Board to contract
for the necessary repairs to put the City Hall elevator in the proper working condition.
Official Proceedings of City Council (11 Nov 1914) 306. City of Savannah, Clerk of Council’s Office, Savannah, Georgia.
“Short Session City Council.” Savannah Evening Press (12 November 1914) 2:3.

Municipal/New Departments
1915

During the year 1915, the Playground Department established an office on the first floor of City Hall for
Director Montague Gammon.
Annual Message to City Council of Hon. Wallace J. Pierpont Mayor…of the City of Savannah, Georgia Year Ending December 31,
1915. Savannah: 1915.
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Events/125th Anniversary of Municipal Government
1915 March 8

On March 8, 1915, Savannah celebrated the 125th anniversary of the inauguration of the first mayor and
aldermen of the municipality. On March 1, 1790, as specified by the act of the General Assembly of
December 23, 1789 incorporating Savannah, an election was held at the Market House for the City’s first
aldermen. Seven men were elected that day, including Joseph Clay, Jr., Joseph Habersham, Edward
Lloyde, Matthew McAllister, Justus H. Sheuber, and Samuel Stirke. The following Monday, March 8,
1790, John Houstoun (1744-1796), former Governor of Georgia, was chosen by the elected aldermen from
their own body as the first Mayor of Savannah. Houstoun took the oath of office in the council room of the
Court House.
Gamble, Thomas, Jr. “Municipality 125 Years Old To-day.” Savannah Morning News (8 March 1915). Gamble Collection, “Stories
of Savannah,” REF 975.8 G. Live Oak Public Library, Bull Street Branch, Savannah, Georgia.

Events/Davant Funeral
1915 October 9

On October 9, 1915, Mayor Richard J. Davant (1866-1915) died unexpectedly in a hotel in Millen,
Georgia. Davant, only forty-nine years old, was currently serving his second term as Mayor of Savannah.
Davant’s remains were brought back to Savannah and laid in state in the Council Chamber for public
viewing on October 11th and 12th. A “constant throng” of people came through to pay respects to the late
mayor. The casket was surrounded by floral arrangements, many from the various City departments, and
“the southern end of council chamber was a mass of flowers.”


“Mayor Davant’s Funeral Procession
Leaving City Hall for Trinity Church.”
Savannah Morning News (13 October 1915) 14:2.
Used with permission.

The funeral was held at Trinity Church on October 12th and began at 3:30 in the afternoon with a funeral
procession removing the body from City Hall and transporting it to the church on a horse drawn caisson
draped with flags, followed by Davant’s riderless horse led by a member of the Chatham Artillery. The
procession, led by Chief M. L. Meldrim and a squad of mounted police, included members of the Savannah
Volunteer Guards, the Knights of Pythias, and all the City departments on foot. The following day, the
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Savannah Morning News ran a photograph of the funeral procession with the caption, “The streets are
jammed with sorrowful people on either side, and the military organizations are seen formed in the back
towards the City Hall.”
Chairman of Council Wallace J. Pierpont was elected by members of Council to fill Davant’s vacancy on
October 18, 1915. On October 27, 1915, the committee appointed to prepare an appropriate memorial to
the late mayor reported to Council and included his contribution to the construction of City Hall in the
highlights of his achievements.
On the committee charged with the erection of the city hall he was of great value. He
entered zealously into the planning of the handsome structure that is now one of the chief
buildings of Savannah. Criticising [sic] intelligently, suggesting wisely, supervising
comprehensively, his name upon the tablet in its main corridor attests valuable service
rendered over the entire period of conception and execution of the plans that gave to the
municipal government a home in keeping with the importance of the city.
Annual Message to City Council of Hon. Wallace J. Pierpont Mayor…of the City of Savannah, Georgia Year Ending December 31,
1915. Savannah: 1915. p49-51.
“Fully 5,000 View Late Mayor’s Body.” Savannah Morning News (12 October 1915) 14:1.
“Mayor Davant Dies Suddenly in Hotel in Millen” Savannah Morning News (10 October 1915) 24:1.
“Mayor Davant’s Funeral Procession Leaving City Hall for Trinity Church.” Savannah Morning News (13 October 1915) 14:2-5.
“Name Pierpont for Mayoralty.” Savannah Morning News (14 October 1915) 12:1.
“Thousands Pay the Last Tribute to Mayor Davant.” Savannah Evening Press (12 October 1915) 10:2.
“Two Mayors Elected For Four-Year Terms.” Savannah Morning News (24 February 1937) 14:3.
“Will Bury Mayor Davant To-Morrow.” Savannah Morning News (11 October 1915) 12:1.

Events/Investigation of Fire Chief Engineer Monroe
1916 April 18

On April 18, 1916, at 8:30 in the evening, City Council met to hear charges of misconduct against John H.
Monroe, Chief Engineer of the Fire Department. Alderman Joseph A. Logan, member of the Committee on
Fire, brought the charges which were investigated by City Attorney R. J. Travis. W. W. Osborne
represented Monroe in the hearing. An estimated two to three hundred spectators crowded the Council
Chamber to hear the proceedings, during which Mayor Pierpont threatened to clear the room several times
following applause or outbursts.
Three charges were brought against Monroe including: private use of public funds in the purchase of four
automobile tires and rims on December 3, 1915 resulting in a bill of $285.18 against the City; gross
insubordination for referring to an order of the Mayor given on March 28, 1916 with, “I’ll be damned if
they (meaning the mayor and board of aldermen) can put anybody in my department I don’t want”; and
conduct to the prejudice of discipline and good order at the December 25, 1915 cotton fire on West Bay
Street when he ordered Police Lieutenant B. S. Bryant away from his place of duty causing unnecessary
friction between the two departments.
Mr. Monroe’s defense was that he purchased the tires without going through the
formality of getting the authority of the board of purchase because he considered it an
emergency matter and that a delay might operate against the efficiency of the
department. He brought out in his testimony, however, that he had conferred with
Chairman W. A. Pigman of the fire department and that his action had the sanction of
that official.
After over four hours of testimony and deliberation, City Council acquitted Monroe of the first charge, but
found him guilty of the charges of insubordination and misconduct in a vote of eight to two, with Alderman
Schroder abstaining on the grounds that the offenses committed did not justify the severe penalty. Monroe
was immediately dismissed from his position and the office abolished in order to prevent Monroe from
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being restored to the position through legal proceedings. Arthur J. Tosach, First Assistant Fire Chief, was
temporarily placed in charge of the department.
Annual Message to City Council of Hon. Wallace J. Pierpont Mayor…of the City of Savannah, Georgia Year Ending December 31,
1916. Savannah: 1916. p612-614.
“Council Ousts Chief Monroe.” Savannah Morning News (19 April 1916) 14:5.

Events/Flag Day & Preparedness Parade
1916 June 14

On June 14, 1916, in observance of Flag Day, the community staged a Preparedness Parade up Bull Street,
marching in front of a decorated City Hall.
An army of peace, yet an army of preparedness; a mighty protest of an aroused people
against insecurity, over-confidence, the lulling of a nation into a fool’s paradise of
perpetual exemption from the shock of armed conflict. It was, as it has been elsewhere,
the soul of the people uttering its demands in a panorama that made mere speech
speechless by comparison….
The inspiration of the parade will long remain. Simple though the carrying of the flag
was, it yesterday insured for it a closer and dearer relationship to every parader….


Preparedness Parade marches from City Hall, photograph by Foltz, June 14, 1916.
“Some Striking Groups in the Preparedness Parade.” Savannah Morning News (15 June 1916) 12:3.
Gamble Collection, “Stories of Savannah,” REF 975.8G.
Live Oak Public Library, Bull Street Branch, Savannah, Georgia.
Used with permission.


Savannah Girl Scouts march in the Preparedness Parade, June 1916.
Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace, Savannah, Georgia.
Used with permission.

A Century of History, 1910 ~ 1919
January 2006
21
Starting at 6 o’clock in the evening, over 7,000 marched from City Hall to Park Avenue led by Grand
Marshal J. Pearce Wheless. Along the parade route, businesses and homes were adorned with flags as were
the Savannah Electric Company’s streetcars and ships in the harbor. Participants, all carrying American
flags, included members of the Rotary Club, the 1st Sanitary Corps, the Benedictine Cadets, the Chevy
Chase Girls, the Boy and Girl Scouts, about 3,000 school children, a men’s division led by Mayor W. J.
Pierpont and members of Council, and a women’s division representing practically every women’s
organization in the city.
The old flag probably never looked more beautiful than when it came down Bull street
like a flood. The murmuring voices of the multitude of spectators were almost hushed.
As the parade passed[,] the sun for a few moments gleamed gently through the
threatening clouds and smiled upon the banner of liberty. Its genial light touched the red
and gave to it a deeper crimson hue, typifying the blood of the heroes who died for it; it
touched the blue and it became a royal purple, the color of a kingly nation; it touched the
white and made it snow-like in its purity, fair symbol of its purport. Nature’s choice
drapery of green was overshadowed. From overhead it seemed as though a myriad of
stars had dropped from beyond the dark gray heavens and been caught by a marching
host. The cool air seemed to play lovingly with the bunting, to touch the flag as though
with fingers of endearment. The trees nodding before every passing breeze seemed to
drop their graceful branches lower as though they would kiss the flag. And when the
wind came in greater volume and swept along the street it proudly bore the flag without a
furl that all might admire and love it more.
It was Flag Day in reality and Savannah to-day is the better for it and will be the better
for it for many days to come.
Photographer Foltz snapped about fifty photographs of the parade from a dozen different points along the
route of the different divisions and groups. The images appeared in the newspaper the following day and
included one of City Hall. Foltz reported that he would sell sets of the photographs as “souvenirs of this
unique public demonstration.”
“Foltz Took Many Pictures of Parade.” Savannah Morning News (15 June 1916) 5:5.
Gamble Collection, “Stories of Savannah,” REF 975.8G. Live Oak Public Library, Bull Street Branch, Savannah, Georgia.
Gamble, Thomas, Jr. “Emotions Stirred by Marching Throng.” Savannah Morning News (15 June 1916) 12:2.
“Thousands Join in Stirring Protest Against Insecurity.” Savannah Morning News (15 June 1916) 12:1.

Artifacts/S. S. Savannah Model
1916 December 20


City Hall Folder: S. S. Savannah model in the Council Chamber (27 October 1964).
Savannah Morning News, Savannah, Georgia.
Used with permission.

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On December 20, 1916, Captain A. F. Churchill, of the Churchill Line, received a model of the S. S.
Savannah, the first steamship to cross the Atlantic Ocean. The eight foot hull (eleven feet from tibboom to
taftrail) and rigging of the model had been constructed by the Central of Georgia Railway. I. G. Pitman, a
stevedore of the Churchill Line, acquired the model from the Central and transported it to Nova Scotia
where he worked with elderly sailing captains to correct the model’s rigging. Captain Churchill had the
model returned to Savannah in the hopes that it would be used in connection with a centennial celebration
of the S. S. Savannah in 1919 and would then be acquired by the City and placed in a glass case for public
display at the Georgia Historical Society. The model was considered very detailed and accurate with
lifeboats, gangway, brass ship bells, two water tanks, two anchors, two brass cannons, and a carved wooden
head of Captain Moses Rogers standing on the poop deck.*
*The model was on display in City Hall’s Council Chamber for many years. Today it can be viewed by the
public at the Savannah History Museum.
“Model of Savannah is Exhibited Here.” Savannah Morning News (21 December 1916) 14:5.

Events/Meldrim Funeral
1916 December 20

On the afternoon of December 20, 1916, Police Chief Marvin L. Meldrim (1872-1916) died at Park View
Sanitarium following a ten day illness from an infection resulting from an appendicitis operation. Meldrim
entered the Savannah Police Department at the age of twenty-three in 1896 and was elected Chief on
January 28, 1913. “Probably no man, with the exception of the late Mayor Davant, holding a place in
public life in Savannah was held in such high esteem by every one who knew him as was Chief Meldrim.”
As an indication of his standing in the community and in the City, City Council passed a resolution on
December 20, 1916, expressing their desire that the late chief’s remains lay in state in City Hall on the day
of the funeral, “in order that the public may have an opportunity to pay to the memory of Mr. Meldrim its
last tribute of respect.” Meldrim’s remains laid in state in the Council Chamber on the morning on
December 22nd in full dress uniform guarded by four patrolmen with an additional two mounted officers at
the entrance to City Hall. Work in City Hall came to a standstill and people talked in hushed voices until
after Meldrim’s remains were removed. Hundreds “from all walks of the city’s life, filed slowly and
reverently past the body of the dead chief.”
When the time for the funeral came Mayor Pierpont, with the aldermen and other city
officials, lined the corridor leading to the Council room. The members of the police
department, under the leadership of Lieut. B. S. Bryant, acting chief, were the last to view
the body, marching past in single file. Then they were drawn up opposite the City Hall
and when the casket, borne by the sergeants of the force, was taken to the street and the
doors of the hearse closed upon it, the members of the department, four abreast, headed
the long procession which went out Bull street to Oglethorpe [avenue]…
The funeral procession began at City Hall’s steps and included members of the Police force and City
Council. Eight police sergeants acted as pall bearers. Dewey, Chief Meldrim’s favorite horse, followed the
casket riderless with empty boots. As the procession left for Laurel Grove Cemetery, “Big Duke,” the fire
bell, tolled.
Annual Message to City Council of Hon. Wallace J. Pierpont Mayor…of the City of Savannah, Georgia Year Ending December 31,
1916. Savannah: 1916. p615.
“Chief M. L. Meldrim Loses Brave Fight.” Savannah Morning News (21 December 1916) 14:3.
“Chief Meldrim is Buried.” Savannah Evening Press (22 December 1916) 16:2.
“Chief Meldrim is Laid to Rest.” Savannah Morning News (23 December 1916) 8:6.
“Chief Meldrim to be Buried To-Day, City Mourns His Death, Body Will Lie in State at the City Hall.” Savannah Morning News (22
December 1916) 10:2.

A Century of History, 1910 ~ 1919
January 2006
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Structure/Fire Alarm System
1917

During 1917, improvements made on the City’s fire alarm system included the installation of additional
boxes, cables, wires, and the rewiring of the main switch board at City Hall.
Annual Message to City Council of Hon. Wallace J. Pierpont Mayor…of the City of Savannah, Georgia Year Ending December 31,
1917. Savannah: 1917. p151.

Structure/Tower Clock
1917 April 26

On April 26, 1917, T. P. Sandiford, City Electrician, was made keeper of the City Clocks, relieving the
Wells Jewelry Company. According to Sandiford’s 1917 annual report, “I shortly afterwards made a report
to Fire Chief McFarland, calling attention to the unsafe condition of the weights in the City Hall Clock.
This has since been remedied by workmen under direction of Chief Engineer Connant.”
Annual Message to City Council of Hon. Wallace J. Pierpont Mayor…of the City of Savannah, Georgia Year Ending December 31,
1917. Savannah: 1917. p154.

Events/Flag Resolution for World War I
1918 January 2
On January 2, 1918, City Council passed a resolution, presented by Alderman John W. Daniel, Sr., making
it unlawful to fly any national flags other than that of the United States or one of its allies from City Hall’s
dome during the war (World War I):
Whereas, the time has come in the history of this country when every citizen, regardless
as to whether he is a native-born son or of foreign birth, should deem is [sic] a sufficient
honor to be known as an American, laying aside in spirit as well as in form all allegiance
ti [sic] any foreign land, and acknowledging but one flag, the Stars and Stripes of the
United States, therefore be it
Resolved, by the Mayor and aldermen of the city of Savannah, in Council assembled,
That from and after this date no flag of any foreign land shall be displayed on the City
Hall except the flag of such nation as may be at the time an ally of the United States in
war, or the flag of such nation as may have a vessel of war visiting the port officially, or
of such nation as may have at the time a high official of its government as the official
guest of the city.
During the same Council meeting, Alderman Joseph A. Logan suggested the City maintain a “Roll of
Honor” of all those Savannahians who had served in the armed services of the United States during the war.
Council adopted a resolution to begin such a roll and to encourage relatives and friends of soldiers to co-
operate by sending the necessary information to the Mayor’s office for the compilation of an official
document to be kept by the Clerk of Council.
Official Proceedings of City Council (2 Jan 1918) 402. City of Savannah, Clerk of Council’s Office, Savannah, Georgia.
“Only Old Glory to Fly O’er City Hall; Alien Flags are Barred; U-Boats Will Find No Place to Raise Teuton Banner.” Savannah
Morning News (3 January 1918) 10:2.

Events/Armistice Day
1918 November 11

On Monday, November 11, 1918, Savannah celebrated Armistice Day of World War I with a spontaneous
celebration as news of Germany’s surrender spread through the city starting at dawn. By 10 o’clock, a
crowd, “in a delirium of joy,” had gathered on the corner of Bull and Broughton streets and burned the
Kaiser in effigy.
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The official municipal celebration started at the same hour, when the fire department’s
engines and trucks, gaily decorated and loaded with waving, cheering adults and
children, set out to tour the city. At 10:15 the whistles of industrial plants and all the
ships in the harbor joined in for more than a half hour’s “serenade.”… Spontaneous
talks by Recorder John E. Schwarz, Mayor Pierpont, and Dr. Wilder were greeted with
wild cheers at different times during the day…. Banks and stores were closed all day, and
courts as well as school classes were suspended…. That night, for the first time in months
and with special permission from James M. Dixon, fuel administrator, the city was
brilliantly illuminated….
From the dome of City Hall, the flag of the Fourth Liberty Loan Drive was flown below the United States
flag. Mayor Wallace J. Pierpont designated November 14th as a legal holiday called “Victory Day” and
preparations for a large parade began. However, a meeting at City Hall on the 12th resulted in the
cancellation of the parade and holiday in light of the previous day’s events and the probability that there
would be some form of national celebration in the weeks following. “Yesterday’s celebration sprang out of
the heart and will of the people themselves…for all the world was making holiday together, and there was
no one so poor or so humble or so high as not to share in it.”
“City Holds Carnival When News of Peace is Reached.” Savannah Morning News (12 November 1918) 10:1-2.
Elise Wortsman, “How Savannah Celebrated World War I Armistice Day,” Savannah Evening Press (16 September 1944) 3:2.
“Formal Celebration Called for Thursday.” Savannah Morning News (12 November 1918) 10:2.
Gamble Collection, “Fifty Years’ Memories of Savannah” REF 975.8 GAM. Live Oak Public Library, Bull Street Branch, Savannah,
Georgia.
“Parade Plans are Abandoned.” Savannah Morning News (13 November 1918) 10:3.

Events/U. S. S. Savannah Visit
1919 February 16-19

Between February 16th and 19th, 1919, the U. S. S. Savannah visited the city it was named for. The U. S. S.
Savannah was a submarine tender seized from the Germans at the beginning of World War I. The 7,000-
ton ship was built at Flensburg, Germany and was originally named Saxonia. In November 1917, it was
commissioned the U. S. S. Savannah and had since gone 12,220 miles on the high seas as the “mother ship”
or flagship of the 8th Division, 3rd Submarine Flotilla. On its visit to Savannah, the group was docked at the
Atlantic Coast Line terminals and opened to the public for inspection.
On the February 16th, immediately after the arrival of the fleet, Captain Stapler, commanding officer of the
division, and Lieutenant Commander Pierce called on Mayor Murray Stewart at City Hall. In return, the
Mayor and Reception Committee were guests at a luncheon on the U. S. S. Savannah. On February 19th,
around 10:30 in the morning, the submarine tender set sail from Savannah bound for Cuba’s Guantanamo
Bay. That day, Mayor Stewart wrote Josephus Daniels, Secretary of the Navy, thanking him for the
division’s visit to the city.
“Cordial Welcome for Submarines.” Savannah Morning News (18 February 1919) 10:3.
Gamble, Thomas. “Thousands Visit Submarine Fleet.” Savannah Morning News (17 February 1919) 10:2.
“Submarines Sail for Florida Ports on Way to Guantanamo.” S