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Synopsis
There is notable mythology surrounding the arrival of the first Jews in Savannah. Modern tour guides often recount a streamlined narrative claiming that Jewish settlement in Georgia was initially expressly prohibited, but during a severe epidemic, a ship carrying Jewish passengers, including a doctor, arrived. The tale suggests that General Oglethorpe, recognizing the dire need for medical help and moved by compassion, allowed them to stay.
As is often the case with legend and lore, the full story can be even more fascinating, offering deeper insight into the events that shaped our present. The arrival of Jewish immigrants in the Georgia colony occurred at such an early and critical stage of its development that their contributions quickly became indispensable, providing essential labor and skills to the fledgling community. While Jews were never explicitly banned in Georgia, pressure soon arose following a vote by the Trustees to prohibit Jewish settlement. However, Oglethorpe chose to defy this directive, opting not to implement the policy, and thereby ensuring the Jewish settlers could remain and contribute to the colony's growth.1
Today, Savannah's Jewish population reflects a rich blend of heritage, representing all three major Jewish denominations—Orthodox, Conservative, and Reform—and encompassing both Ashkenazic (Central and Eastern European) and Sephardic (Spanish, North African, and Middle Eastern) cultural traditions. The first Jewish settlers in 1733, however, primarily hailed from Sephardic backgrounds, having fled persecution fueled by the enduring Spanish Inquisition.
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Arrival In The New Colony
A Unique Jewish Heritage
Conclusion
The Jewish community of Savannah, Georgia, stands out as one of the oldest in the United States. This community, established alongside Savannah itself, has played a pivotal role in shaping the city’s character as a more open and cross-cultural town. Situated in the heart of the Deep South, Savannah’s Jewish population contributed significantly to fostering diversity and tolerance in a region historically marked by rigid social divides. Their longstanding presence, alongside their active participation in civic and cultural life, has helped make Savannah a model for the integration of different traditions, illustrating how a small yet vibrant community can enrich the social and cultural fabric of a city.
