Savannah is the oldest city in Georgia state, established in 1733 on the Savannah River. Its long and colorful history, cobblestone streets, parks, and historic buildings attract millions of visitors every year. During the Civil War, the city suffered severely from the sea blockades, and the economy crumbled. After the end of the Civil War, the Reconstruction period began in Savannah. At the turn of the 20th-century agriculture and cotton were primary industries that supported the economy. The city became a maritime centre and several new industries were also constructed that include aircraft, shipbuilding, chemicals manufacturing, and the export of resin and lumber.

The boll weevil outbreak of the 1920s destroyed the cotton, and the Great depression further slowed down the growth. In the 1930s and 1940s, several historic buildings and landmarks were also demolished to build high-rise buildings, parking, road widening and to make downtown Savannah competitive with commercial development in the emerging suburbs. During World War II, Savannah manufacturing aided the war effort through the construction of Liberty ships and the economy and growth were back on track.

Take a look at these spectacular rare historic photos of Savannah from the early 20th century that show streets, roads, landmarks and everyday life.