Burroughs, Georgia facts for kids
Burroughs is a special place in Chatham County, Georgia. It started as a town built by people who were formerly enslaved. In 1906, it was known as a "post-village," which means it had a post office. It was located near the Ogeechee River, about 12 miles southwest of the city of Savannah. In 1900, about 118 people lived there. Burroughs became an official town in 1898, but its town status was removed in 1921. Today, it is a neighborhood within Savannah.
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Burroughs: A Historic Georgia Community
Burroughs holds an important place in Georgia's history. It was founded by African Americans who had been freed from slavery. They worked together to create their own community. This was a common way for freed people to build new lives after the American Civil War.
The Founding of Burroughs
Burroughs was officially recognized as a town in 1898. This meant it had its own local government and rules. The first mayor of Burroughs was a person named J. C. Legree. A mayor is like the main leader of a town or city. Another important person in the early days of Burroughs was Henry Alexander Saturnin Hartley, who was a missionary. Missionaries are people who travel to help others and share their beliefs.
Important Places in Burroughs
Burroughs is home to two very old and important churches:
- St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church
- New Ogeechee Missionary Baptist Church
These churches have been central to the community for many years. They are places where people gather, worship, and support each other.
Transportation and Resources
The Atlantic Coast Line Railroad used to run right through Burroughs. There was even a train station called Burroughs Station. Trains were a major way for people and goods to travel a long time ago. In 1993, the train stop in Burroughs was removed.
The area around Burroughs also has "artesian wells." These are special wells where water flows up from deep underground naturally, without needing a pump. Today, you can also visit the Burroughs Neighborhood Park, a place for people to relax and play.
