Canal Restoration
For most of the nineteenth century the Savannah - Ogeechee Canal played a vital role in the economic life of the Savannah and the entire Coastal Empire. Today it is coming back to life as a linear park in the Chatham County Park System. The hydraulics of the canal were controlled by a system of six locks using the tidal force of the canal.
 The Savannah - Ogeechee Canal may be unique among nineteenth century transportation canals in that the entire original route of the canal remains intact with minimal disturbance by road or other construction projects. The Chatham County Commission has designated the Savannah - Ogeechee Canal Society as the lead organization to undertake the revitalization of the canal. The society relies on volunteer labor and private sponsors to accomplish work. Fully one-third of the canal, its locks and growth have been cleared of a one hundred year old mantle of undergrowth and trees where they did not belong. Already excellent hiking opportunities have been created. An interpretive museum, nature trails and picnic facilities are available at the Society's Museum and Nature Center at the Ogeechee River end of the canal. In the future the downtown Savannah end, adjacent to the historic district, may be the site for mule drawn barge rides.
681 Fort Argyle Road * Savannah, GA 31419
(912) 748-8068 * Fax: (912) 748-0805
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