John Wesley, a renowned evangelist and co-founder of the Methodist movement, is credited with the establishment of Savannah, Georgia. His missionary work and efforts to spread the Anglican faith in America led to the founding of this beautiful city, known for its rich history and vibrant culture.

The Early Days of John Wesley

John Wesley was born on June 17, 1703, in Epworth, England to Rev. Samuel Wesley and Susanna Wesley. He was one of 19 children in a large Methodist family. His parents were devout Anglicans and raised their children with strong religious principles. John’s father was a rector at the local church, and his mother was a strong figure in the community.

At the age of 19, John Wesley received a scholarship to study at Oxford University. During this time, he and his brother, Charles Wesley, along with a few other students, formed a small group called the “Holy Club.” This group was known for their strict religious observances and devout nature, earning them the nickname “Methodists.”

John Wesley’s Mission to America

In 1735, John Wesley embarked on a mission to America as a missionary for the Church of England. The primary purpose of his journey was to spread Anglicanism and establish a mission in the newly formed colony of Georgia. He was joined by his brother, Charles, and a group of Moravian missionaries.

Upon their arrival in Georgia, John Wesley quickly realized the challenge of converting the colonists to the Anglican faith. The English settlers in Georgia were not as devout as the ones back home, and some were skeptical about the Church of England’s teachings. This setback, along with conflicts with the colonial administration, led to Wesley’s return to England after two years.

Founding of Savannah, Georgia

Although his mission to Georgia was not as successful as he had hoped, John Wesley had a significant impact on the colony’s growth and development. During his brief stay, he formed close relationships with the local Native American tribe, the Yamacraws, and the English settlers.

When Georgia’s founder, James Oglethorpe, gave Wesley a plot of land to establish a missionary, he used it to build a Savannah, a town located along the Savannah River. On February 12, 1736, John Wesley laid the town’s cornerstone and named it after the river it was built on.

Preserving Wesley’s Legacy in Savannah

Today, Savannah is a popular tourist destination, known for its well-preserved historic district and distinct Southern charm. The city has several landmarks, including the John Wesley monument, erected in his honor in 1929. The church that was built on the original site of Wesley’s missionary also still stands and is known as the “Mother Church of American Methodism.”

Savannah is not only significant because of John Wesley’s influence, but it also played a crucial role in the American Revolution and the Civil War. Visitors can explore the city’s rich history through guided tours, museums, and historic sites.

In Conclusion

John Wesley’s missionary work in America and the founding of Savannah symbolize the city’s strong connection to the Methodist movement. His legacy lives on in the city’s name and the numerous landmarks that pay tribute to his contributions. Visitors to Savannah can experience the city’s vibrant culture while also learning about its fascinating history, thanks to the efforts of John Wesley and his dedication to spreading the Anglican faith.

Interlink:
– To learn more about John Wesley’s early life and his influence on the Methodist movement, check out our article “Who is John Wesley?” on Why Is Explained.
– For further reading on the history of Savannah and its ties to the American Revolution, visit the National Park Service’s website.