The Davenport House Museum, a historic gem in Savannah, Georgia.
The Davenport House Museum in Savannah has won the prestigious 2025 Special Project Award from the Georgia Association of Museums for its Urban Enslaved Exhibit. Launched in November 2023, the exhibit engages visitors by immersing them in the lives of 13 enslaved individuals who worked in the historic house. This recognition marks a significant achievement in acknowledging the complex history of urban slavery while enhancing educational public initiatives.
In a delightful turn of events for history buffs in Savannah, Georgia, the Davenport House Museum has just snagged the prestigious 2025 Special Project Award from the Georgia Association of Museums (GAM) for its remarkable Urban Enslaved Exhibit. The award was presented on February 7, 2025, during the GAM’s annual meeting in Milledgeville, Georgia. This recognition is not just a feather in the cap for the museum but also a significant acknowledgment of the educational efforts surrounding the sensitive topic of urban slavery.
Located at 324 E. State St. on Columbia Square, the Davenport House Museum is a true gem steeped in history. Built in 1820 by master carpenter Isaiah Davenport, this Federal-style home brings to life a critical part of Savannah’s rich historical narrative. The museum has opened its doors to visitors since 1963 and has been an essential voice in preserving Savannah’s history. The recent establishment of the Urban Enslaved Exhibit marks an important leap forward in acknowledging the lives of the 13 enslaved individuals—like Bella, Jack, Ned, and Dave—who once lived and worked within its walls.
The exhibit, which opened its doors to the public in November 2023, has successfully transformed the garden-level of the museum into an engaging and educational space. It captures the complexities of urban slavery during the antebellum period, providing an immersive experience that goes beyond mere texts and artifacts. Visitors have the chance to step into the original rooms and hear the authentic sounds of meals being prepared, all while learning about the daily lives of the enslaved individuals who spent their lives serving the household.
What sets the Urban Enslaved Exhibit apart is not only its informative approach but also its emotional impact. By allowing visitors a glimpse into the living and working conditions of the enslaved, the exhibit fosters a deeper understanding of their struggles, achievements, and daily routines. It also serves as a poignant reminder of the historical context in which these individuals lived, making the experience all the more significant for anyone stepping through the museum’s doors.
Since its inception, the Davenport House Museum has continuously prioritized educational initiatives. Previously, it received accolades like the 2023 Multimedia Award for a virtual youth guide and the Preserve America Presidential Award for excellence in historic preservation. But the crowning achievement, no doubt, is this latest award which highlights the ongoing commitment to enhancing public understanding of Savannah’s complex history.
The aspiration to save the Davenport House from demolition in 1955 was sparked by a tireless group of local women. Their efforts laid the groundwork for what would become a cornerstone of the historic preservation movement in Savannah. This commitment to history is a tradition that continues today, as the museum successfully merges the past with the present to ensure future generations learn the full story of Savannah.
The importance of recognizing the legacies of enslaved individuals cannot be overstated. As society continues to grapple with its past, educational initiatives like the Urban Enslaved Exhibit serve as crucial tools for understanding, healing, and progress. By shedding light on previously marginalized histories, the Davenport House Museum provides a much-needed dialogue about the realities of our collective past.
Curious minds looking to delve deeper into Savannah’s intricate history can visit the Davenport House Museum. With its engaging exhibits and rich stories, the museum remains an educational haven for locals and tourists alike. For those interested in exploring more about the museum and its various programs, additional information can be found on their official website.
As Savannah continues to celebrate its rich historical landscape, the Davenport House Museum stands out not only as a protector of the past but as a beacon of hope for a more inclusive understanding of history. Visitors leaving the Urban Enslaved Exhibit will undoubtedly walk away with a renewed appreciation of the multifaceted narratives that shape the enchanting city of Savannah today.
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