I’ve spent years touring Savannah’s historic sites, and The Pink House stands out as one of the city’s most fascinating landmarks.
This 250-year-old mansion tells stories of revolution, survival, and Southern hospitality that you won’t find anywhere else.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the building’s colonial origins, its role in American independence, and why it turned that signature pink color.
You’ll learn about the ghosts that reportedly haunt its halls, the award-winning restaurant inside, and how to plan your own visit.
I’ve gathered firsthand details and historical facts to help you appreciate every layer of The Pink House Savannah history. Trust me, this place has more stories than most museums.
Understanding The Pink House Savannah
The Pink House is more than just a restaurant. It’s a 250-year-old mansion that played a key role in America’s founding and survived countless historical events.
This building witnessed Revolutionary War planning, served as Georgia’s first bank, and weathered fires that destroyed much of Savannah.
Today, it operates as one of the city’s most celebrated dining spots while keeping its rich past alive through preserved architecture and documented ghost stories.
Origins of The Pink House
The Pink House began as a bold statement in colonial Savannah. Built in 1771, this mansion took 18 years to complete, finally finishing in 1789.
James Habersham Jr. and the Habersham Family
James Habersham Jr. commissioned this home for his family. The Habershams were major players in Savannah’s early days.
They ran successful businesses and held political influence throughout the colony.
James Sr. served as acting royal governor before the Revolution. His sons continued the family’s legacy in commerce and politics.
The mansion reflected their wealth and status. It was one of the first brick buildings in a city full of wooden structures.
Revolutionary War Connections
This house saw history in the making. Patriots met secretly in its rooms to plan resistance against British rule.
Joseph Habersham, James Jr.’s brother, became a Revolutionary hero. He helped capture British supplies and disrupted their communication lines.
These daring raids weakened British control in Georgia.
The house served as a safe meeting place. Colonial leaders gathered here to discuss independence and strategy. The walls heard conversations that shaped America’s future.
Architectural Significance of The Pink House
This building stands out for more than its color. The architecture tells its own fascinating story.
From Red Bricks to Iconic Pink Walls
Here’s something I love about this place. The pink wasn’t planned.
The house started with red Savannah bricks. Workers covered them with white stucco plaster. Over time, the red bled through the white. This created that famous rosy hue we see today.
The owners tried repainting it white several times. The pink always came back. Eventually, they embraced it. Now it’s the building’s signature look.
Interior Design and Historic Details
Step inside and you’ll see a mix of Georgian and Victorian styles. The mansion blends two major design periods beautifully.
The Palladian windows catch your eye immediately. These large arched windows were rare in colonial America. They flood the rooms with natural light.
Original pine floors creak under your feet. They’ve held up for over 200 years. Crystal chandeliers hang from high ceilings, many from the 1800s.
Hand-carved mantles frame fireplaces in several rooms. The woodwork shows incredible craftsmanship from colonial artisans.
The Pink House Through the Centuries
This building has worn many hats over 250 years. Each era added new chapters to its story.
Early Uses and Historical Events
The Habersham family lived here first. After James Jr. died, the house changed hands multiple times.
In 1812, it became Planters Bank. The bank operated from the first floor for decades. This was Georgia’s first bank building.
During the Civil War, Union forces occupied Savannah. They used The Pink House as their headquarters. General Sherman’s army ran operations from these rooms.
The building survived two massive fires that destroyed much of Savannah. It also made it through Yellow Fever outbreaks that killed thousands.
20th Century Restoration and Restaurant Transformation
The 1920s brought new life. A group opened the Georgian Tea Room here. Ladies gathered for afternoon tea and light meals.
Years of neglect followed. The building fell into disrepair by the 1960s.
Then Jim Williams bought it. He was a preservationist and antiques dealer. Williams restored the mansion to its former glory. He saved it from demolition.
In 1971, someone converted it into The Olde Pink House Restaurant. The restaurant honors both the building’s history and Savannah’s culinary traditions.
Culinary Legacy of The Olde Pink House
The food here matches the history. This restaurant serves some of Savannah’s best Southern cooking. I’ve tried almost everything on their menu.
Here are the dishes you absolutely can’t miss:
- Crispy Flounder : Their signature dish with an apricot shallot glaze that’s perfectly balanced
- Fried Green Tomato BLT : A Southern twist on the classic with tangy green tomatoes that’s crunchy and filling
- Braised Pork : Slow-cooked until it falls apart on your fork with seasonal sides
- She-Crab Soup : Rich, creamy, and loaded with fresh crab meat
- Pecan Pie and Bread Pudding : Save room for these excellent desserts that change seasonally
Ghosts and Legends of The Pink House
Now we get to the spooky stuff. This place has a reputation for paranormal activity.
The Spirit of James Habersham Jr.
Staff and diners report seeing James Habersham Jr.’s ghost regularly. He appears in period clothing, often near the fireplaces.
Some say he lights candles that were previously unlit. Others claim he rearranges place settings when the restaurant is closed.
One popular story involves a waiter who felt someone grab his shoulder. He turned around to find no one there. This happens often enough that staff barely react anymore.
Are these stories true? Hard to say. But the accounts are consistent and span decades.
Other Haunted Stories
Revolutionary War soldiers supposedly walk the upper floors. People hear boots on the wooden stairs when the building is empty.
Children’s laughter echoes through rooms. Some believe these are the spirits of Habersham kids who grew up here. They seem playful, not scary.
A female ghost appears in one of the dining rooms. She wears a long dress and vanishes when approached. Staff can’t agree on who she might be.
Paranormal investigators have recorded unexplained sounds and temperature drops. Cold spots appear in certain rooms without any draft.
Visiting The Olde Pink House Today
Planning your visit is straightforward. Here’s what you need to know.
Location and Access
The restaurant sits at 23 Abercorn Street on Reynolds Square. It’s right in the heart of Savannah’s Historic District.
You can walk to it from most downtown hotels. It’s near other famous sites like the Owens-Thomas House and Chippewa Square.
Street parking is limited. I recommend using a nearby parking garage or walking if you can.
Tips for an Authentic Visit
- Make reservations well in advance. This place fills up, especially on weekends. Walk-ins sometimes work for Planters Tavern, but don’t count on it.
- The dress code is smart casual upstairs. Planters Tavern is more relaxed. I’ve seen everything from sundresses to khakis.
- If you want to hear ghost stories, ask your server. Most are happy to share. Some have their own experiences to tell.
- Photography is allowed. The candlelit rooms photograph beautifully. Just be respectful of other diners.
Savannah’s Pink House Legacy
The Pink House stands as living proof that history doesn’t have to be boring. This mansion survived wars, fires, and centuries of change while staying true to its roots.
I’ve visited dozens of historic sites across the South, and few match the combination of great food, real history, and authentic atmosphere you’ll find here.
Whether you’re interested in colonial architecture, Revolutionary War stories, ghost tales, or just a fantastic meal, this place delivers.
Book your table soon and see for yourself why Savannah locals still talk about it after 250 years. Have you visited The Pink House? Share your experience in the comments below!
Frequently asked questions
What makes The Pink House historically important in Savannah?
Built in 1771, it served as a Revolutionary War meeting place, Georgia’s first bank, and Union Army headquarters. It’s one of Savannah’s oldest brick buildings that survived major fires and disasters.
Why is The Pink House actually pink?
Red Savannah bricks were covered with white plaster, but the red bled through over time. This created the signature pink color that always returns even after repainting attempts.
Is The Pink House really haunted?
Staff and visitors report seeing James Habersham Jr.’s ghost, unexplained candle lighting, and children’s laughter. These experiences are widely documented, though whether they’re supernatural remains a personal belief.
Do I need reservations to eat at The Olde Pink House?
Yes, reservations are highly recommended as the restaurant fills up quickly. Planters Tavern sometimes accepts walk-ins, but calling ahead is best.
What should I order at The Olde Pink House Restaurant?
The Crispy Flounder with apricot shallot glaze is their signature dish. The Fried Green Tomato BLT and she-crab soup are also top choices.
