The Bare Bones about Bonaventure

     

Bonaventure Cemetery is one of the most tranquil tourist destinations in Savannah, GA.   Of course, that assumes you aren’t bothered by ghosts.  Bonaventure, French for “good fortune,” was originally part of John Mullryne’s Bonaventure plantation, dating to the mid-1800’s.  The cemetery was purchased by the City of Savannah in 1907 and was made public.  Located on the Wilmington River in east Savannah, Bonaventure is a must-see for anyone interested in Savannah’s past.

 The Savannah landmark is on the US  National Register of Historic Places, but did not realize fame until the 1994 novel (and later movie) of Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil by John Berendt.  The Bird Girl monument featured on the book cover became such a draw to tourists that the statue was donated and moved to the Telfair Museum of Art to prevent its disappearance in the night. 

Bonaventure was famous to locals long before “the Book” was published.  The cemetery is home to a myriad of recognizable habitants, including politicians, actors, civil war officers, authors, and songwriters.  Perhaps the most well-known Bonaventure residents are Conrad Aiken and Johnny Mercer.  Conrad Aiken was a Pulitzer Prize and National Book Award winner.  Aiken, born in Savannah near the turn of the century, came home to live after his parents’ tragic murder-suicide.  Johnny Mercer, a Savannah native, was one of the country’s most prolific songwriters, garnering four Academy Award winning Best Songs.  One of those, “Moon River,” describes another Savannah landmark.

Even if visitors aren’t impressed with the credentials of the residents, there is no doubt they appreciate the eerie beauty of Bonaventure.  Stately oaks and scores of lovely monuments grace the cemetery.  The Bonaventure Historical Society hosts guided walking tours on every second Sunday afternoon.  The tour is a great way to stroll through history and learn about one of the iconic spots that makes Savannah a destination for anyone who loves learning about the past, honing photographic skills, or simply having a gorgeous backdrop for a little exercise.

For more information about Savannah and surrounding area, contact me at VickieLinscott@gmail.com.