Wright Square, nestled in the heart of historic Savannah, Georgia, is more than just a charming city plaza. It’s a window into the past, echoing with stories of colonial ambition, tragic justice, and lingering spirits. For history buffs and paranormal investigators alike, Wright Square serves as a fascinating crossroads of legend and legacy. Surrounded by moss-draped oaks, elegant buildings, and a sense of enduring mystery, it’s no wonder this square has become a magnet for ghost tours and spiritual seekers. Whether you’re standing under the watchful gaze of its monuments or chasing whispers from beyond, Wright Square will leave an impression long after your visit.
The History
The Colonial Foundations of Wright Square
Wright Square is one of Savannah’s original four squares, laid out in 1733 by General James Edward Oglethorpe when he founded the city. Originally called “Percival Square” after Lord Percival—an English noble and trustee of the Georgia colony—it was later renamed to honor James Wright, the third and last royal governor of Georgia. The square rests at the intersection of Bull and President Streets, surrounded by centuries-old architecture and an ambiance frozen in time.
Wright Square’s design reflects Oglethorpe’s vision for a harmonious city, where equal access to community space was woven into the urban layout. In fact, it began as a public square surrounded by communal trust lots and residential tything lots. Today, it stands as a cherished example of that early colonial design, making it a must-see for urban historians and architectural enthusiasts.
Tomochichi’s Burial Site: Lost and Relocated
One of the most significant historical figures connected with Wright Square is Tomochichi, the leader of the Yamacraw tribe. He was instrumental in the peaceful founding of Savannah, forging an alliance with Oglethorpe that set the tone for early colonial-native relations.
Upon his death in 1739, Tomochichi was given the extraordinary honor of being buried in Wright Square—a decision that stood in recognition of his pivotal role in Georgia’s founding. A large granite boulder now marks the site, placed by the Colonial Dames of America in 1899 after the original burial marker was removed to make space for another monument (more on that below). For many Native American advocates and historians, the current memorial remains controversial, symbolizing both respect and erasure.
The Controversial Gordon Monument
The centerpiece of Wright Square today is a towering monument dedicated to William Washington Gordon, the founder of the Central of Georgia Railroad and a prominent Georgian. Erected in 1883, this monument sparked outrage among some of Savannah’s historians and Native American advocates. Why? Because it was built directly over Tomochichi’s original gravesite, effectively removing his place of honor.
The current boulder placed nearby attempts to acknowledge Tomochichi’s role, but the debate about historical visibility continues. Nonetheless, the square has become an important cultural symbol—combining Georgia’s colonial history, its early political ambitions, and complicated relationships with its past. And where complex histories thrive, the echoes of restless spirits often follow…
The Haunt
Wright Square’s Darker Legacy
Behind the serene façade of live oaks and historic buildings, Wright Square harbors a much darker tale—one that makes it a hotbed for paranormal investigators. Aside from its colonial past and monument drama, the square is best known for the tragic tale of Alice Riley, Georgia’s first female accused murderer and its most famous restless spirit.
The Ghost of Alice Riley
Alice Riley was an Irish indentured servant brought to Savannah in the early 1730s. Abused and mistreated by her master, William Wise, Alice and her companion Richard White were accused of conspiring in his murder. Captured and found guilty, they were both sentenced to death—but their executions were separated by months. Riley, who was pregnant at the time, was allowed to give birth before being hanged in Wright Square in 1735.
It’s said that her spirit has never rested since. Numerous witnesses have reported seeing a ghostly woman in colonial garb wandering the square, often near the site of her execution. She’s been seen weeping, calling out for her baby, and even appearing in photographs taken by unwitting tourists. Paranormal investigators have captured unexplained EVPs (Electronic Voice Phenomena), sudden cold spots, and significant EMF (Electromagnetic Field) readings in the exact area where Alice was reportedly hanged.
Spiritual Turbulence in the Square
Alice Riley isn’t the only spiritual presence haunting Wright Square. Many believe that discontent stems from the displacement of Tomochichi’s remains and the symbolic overtaking of his legacy. Some say that the square exudes an unshakable eeriness not found in the other 21 historic squares in Savannah.
Several ghost tours report recurring encounters with “shadow people,” unexplained whispers, and sensations of being watched. According to some sensitive visitors and psychics, Wright Square holds a spiritual crossroads feeling—an energetic hub where the past bleeds into the present. During full moons and atmospheric weather, the hauntings are said to intensify, drawing thrill-seekers and energy readers from all over.
Night Tours and Paranormal Evidence
Multiple tour operators make a point to stop at Wright Square during nightly ghost walks—and for good reason. The amount of documented activity in this area makes it a cornerstone of paranormal interest in Savannah. Tour guides often share similar stories from guests: batteries drain unexpectedly, recordings pick up strange voices, and at least one group reported a shadow figure darting behind the Gordon Monument at precisely midnight.
If you’re equipped with any ghost hunting technology—digital recorders, spirit boxes, or EMF detectors—this square is the place to use them. Just remember to be respectful. Wright Square is more than a ghost story playground; it’s sacred ground layered with deep emotional resonance and cultural missteps.
Why Paranormal Investigators Should Visit Wright Square
Wright Square offers a uniquely thrilling blend of documented colonial history and verifiable paranormal occurrences. Few locations provide as rich a backdrop for ghost hunting as this square, where the boundaries between history and mystery are tantalizingly thin.
Whether you’re chasing the cries of Alice Riley, feeling the weight of Tomochichi’s displaced memory, or simply standing in awe of centuries-old trees that have witnessed unimaginable events, Wright Square belongs on your bucket list. The spirits here don’t just linger—they whisper, they weep, and sometimes… they reach out.
If you’re planning a ghost-hunting adventure in Savannah, make Wright Square a priority. Bring your recording equipment, keep your sense of wonder polished, and tread softly. The past is always watching.