Beneath the ancient oaks of Wright Square a chilling history unfolds. This isn’t just any square. Wright Square is one of Savannah’s original four. It’s a place where the past whispers secrets. It’s steeped in tragedy and triumph.
Wright Square holds a special place in Savannah’s heart. It’s been the center of life since 1733. It served as a bustling marketplace. It witnessed the changing tides of power. It was also the site of Savannah’s first courthouse. Here justice was meted out. Sometimes in a brutal way.
The story of Wright Square is intertwined with that of Tomochichi. This Yamacraw chief was a key figure in Savannah’s founding. He brokered peace between settlers and natives. His grave was originally marked by a simple stone pyramid. However this was later desecrated. A monument to William Washington Gordon replaced it. This act caused outrage. A new granite monument now stands honoring Tomochichi. It stands as a testament to his enduring legacy. It serves as a reminder of a painful chapter in Savannah’s history.
But Wright Square is haunted by more than just the ghost of a forgotten chief. It’s also the resting place of Alice Riley. This Irish immigrant was Savannah’s first female execution victim. Alice and her husband Richard White were accused of murdering William Wise. They were hanged in Wright Square. Alice was pregnant at the time of her execution. Her baby died shortly after. Both are buried near the square. Their spirits are said to still roam these hallowed grounds.
Some say Alice’s ghost seeks her lost baby. Other stories tell of a curse she placed on Savannah. They claim this curse prevents Spanish moss from growing on the square’s oaks. It’s a chilling reminder of the harsh realities of early Savannah.
Even today Wright Square evokes a sense of mystery. The stories of those who perished here linger in the air. The shadows seem to hold a hint of sadness. A touch of the past still echoes among the trees. Yet Wright Square remains a beautiful and captivating spot in Savannah. It’s a reminder of the enduring power of history. This power can weave a compelling narrative. It’s one that continues to captivate visitors for generations to come.