What Are Savannah Rogues?

Savannah is known for her sultry southern charm and rich history. Most of us associate the city with romantic dinner dates, legendary architecture, or the famous fountain in Forsyth Park. But beneath the charming and historic exterior of Savannah there are some wild and notorious characters. These are the rogues and rascals – or villains – of Savannah’s storied past.

Basically, Savannah rogues is a term that refers to people who have broken the law in some way and gotten away with it due to luck, cleverness, or some other factor. There have been a countless number of rogues who have passed through Savannah’s history, so it’s no surprise that there are plenty of stories about their exploits.

History of Savannah Rogues

Savannah’s rogues have been around since the city was founded over 300 years ago in 1733. The earliest rogues were women who posed as Native Americans to escape slavery, while others were organized criminals operating in the town’s fledgling economy.

In the 1800s, white-collar crime exploded in Savannah and there was a period of rampant express robbery, counterfeiting, and kidnapping. There were political scoundrels who conspired against the leaders of Georgia, as well as violent criminals like Billy Smith and Bill Barker. And of course there were smugglers, gamblers, and crooked politicians who brought Chicago-style politics to the state.

By 1902, Savannah had become renowned for its rogues and was literally called the “City of Rogues”. And in 1912, a group of crooks led by Belle Starr Diamond—a female criminal mastermind—rioted in Savannah’s town square.

Today, the term “rogue” still evokes images of Savannah’s notorious runaways, bootleggers, fraudsters, pickpockets, and other miscreants. But thankfully those days are behind us and the city has since become more law abiding – though that’s not to say that it is entirely crime free.

Famous Rogues

Throughout its long history, Savannah has seen its share of rogues who have left an indelible mark on the city. Here are a few of the most famous (or infamous) criminals who have skirted the law while in Savannah:

Franklin Genge

Four-time bank robber and metalworker turned jewel thief, Franklin Genge plied his trade in Savannah during the early 1900s. Genge made his fortune running scams and cons on unsuspecting victims, before leaving town with his ill-gotten gains. He was eventually captured and served time for his crimes – including kidnapping – but was never seen in Savannah again.

Huck Finnigan

Another infamous criminal in Savannah’s past is Huck Finnigan, a swindler whose name still resonates even today. A tout and confidence man of the highest order, Huck made his fortune in Savannah by running a gambling operation, real estate scams, and other nefarious activities. Huck was eventually arrested and served his time in prison but his legacy as a rogue lives on in Savannah.

Trixie Malone

Trixie Malone was one of the most daring and legendary bootleggers in all of Georgia – including Savannah. Her exploits included smuggling whiskey into the city at night by boat and escaping federal agents on horseback. Trixie eventually skipped town with her ill-gotten gains but she is still remembered fondly by locals for her ingenuity and charisma.

Savannah Rogues Today

Today, crime in Savannah has certainly gone down but there are still reports of rogues operating in the city who use their wits to stay one step ahead of the law. From identity thieves to white-collar criminals, street hustlers to jewelry thieves – there are still plenty of rogues roaming the streets of Savannah.

If you want to experience the spirit of Savannah’s rogues firsthand, you can do so by taking part in the Historic Cigar Crawl offered by GetYourGuide. The tour takes you through some of Savannah’s darker corners and allows you to see a side of the city that few people ever experience. So if you’re looking for a wild night out then be sure to check it out!

In conclusion, while they may be not as rampant as they were during certain periods of history, if you really want to get under the skin of Savannah then you should definitely look into learning more about their rogues and rascals from yesteryear – many of whom played groundbreaking roles in helping shape the city where it is today.

The Insider’s Guide to Savannah, Georgia

Savannah, Georgia is a city that has been steeped in history ever since its establishment in 1733. This charming city boasts beautifully preserved architecture, enchanting cobblestone streets, and a vibrant nightlife that has many curious travelers flocking to. While it’s essential that tourists take in the regularly visited attractions, there is so much more to discover. Here’s an insider’s guide to Savannah which will help you explore the hidden gems and lesser-known neighborhoods.

Local Attractions: Discover Savannah’s Best Hidden Gems

When visiting Savannah, every tourist will certainly check off the box of mainstream attractions like The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, Forsyth Park, and River Street. But to experience the authentic spirit of the city, head off the beaten path and explore the lesser-known neighborhoods. You will come across places like the Bonaventure Cemetery, an eerie yet enchanting place that challenges the notions of life, death, and art. The Wormsloe Historic Site is another hidden gem with miles of live oak trees dripping with moss. The haunting beauty of the place is sure to leave you and your companions awestruck.

Dining Spots: Unravel the Secrets of Savannah’s Food Culture

A great way to get a taste of Savannah’s culture is through its food. While it’s essential to try some of the traditional southern delicacies like fried chicken, pulled pork, shrimp and grits, and collard greens, it’s equally fascinating to dig deeper into the city’s culinary traditions and discover some lesser-known dining spots in Savannah. For example, Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room has some of the best low country cuisine in the city, which is served family-style.

Cultural Experiences: Immerse Yourself in Savannah’s Traditions

Savannah is a city that celebrates its heritage and is proud of its traditions. One of the most iconic events of the city is the annual Savannah Music Festival, which attracts artists from all over the world. Visitors can also witness the SCAD Sidewalk Arts Festival when Broughton Street turns into a giant canvas for artists to showcase their work in pastel.

Local History: Discover the Fascinating Stories of Savannah’s Past

Savannah’s history is fascinating, and to understand the city better, one must explore its past. The city’s role in the civil war is well documented, and it’s an experience to visit the Fort Pulaski National Monument to understand the historical significance. Visitors can also take a stroll on Factor’s Walk along the river to learn about the city’s role in the cotton trade.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Experience Savannah Like Never Before

To make your visit to Savannah unforgettable, we are suggesting two unique experiences that only locals know of – first is to try morning yoga in Forsyth Park. It’s an incredible way to start your day feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Second, taking a Ghost Tour of the city is a thrilling activity that delves deep into the city’s supernatural past. It’s undoubtedly a unique experience that will leave you spooked yet intrigued.

In conclusion, Savannah is a city that takes time to reveal itself, but it’s worth every moment spent. This insider’s guide is a great starting point for discovering the hidden gems of the city. It may not be a definitive guide, but it surely will allow visitors to immerse themselves in the city’s rhythm and culture, leading to an unforgettable trip embraced within the memories of Savannah’s allure.