A statue of a group of individuals stands in a park area near a waterfront, while people nearby engage in various activities like browsing a vendor's tent, taking a photo, and walking.
A person stands emotively in a rustic, brick-walled, cavernous space with fallen leaves scattered across the ground.
The image shows a weathered brick pavement with one brick stamped with the text REYNOLDS BLOCK.

Cluskey Vaults near Savannah, GA

Historic District North Savannah, GA 31401
The following tours visit Cluskey Vaults near Savannah, GA:
Savannah Slavery to Freedom Guided Tour Photo
12/12/2024 - 11/29/2025
Embark on a profound journey through history with the Savannah Slavery to Freedom Guided Tour in Savannah, GA, where you will explore the evocative sites and gripping stories that shaped the African American experience in this storied city.
space
Located in the historic downtown of Savannah, Georgia, the Cluskey Embankment Stores, more commonly known as the Cluskey Vaults, are a point of interest steeped in mystery, history, and architectural intrigue.

As three large, vaulted spaces carved out of a coastal bluff, the Cluskey Vaults offer a unique exploration of Savannah's past. Hidden within River Street's Factor’s Walk area, visiting these vaults is like stepping back in time, appealing to architecture enthusiasts, history buffs, and curious explorers alike.

The Cluskey Vaults were built in 1842 under the direction of Charles B. Cluskey, a noted architect of the time. Constructed of Savannah gray brick, the vaults were carved into a bluff along the eastern line of the city's original fortification. They were initially intended to be used as storage spaces for nearby merchants. However, over time, rumors and speculation about the vaults being used for more illicit purposes such as smuggling goods, or even as holding cells for slaves, became part of their lore, adding to the intrigue of the site. The vaults also command a remarkable presence architecturally -- their stone columns, arched ceilings, and enduring strength are a testament to the time and craftsmanship of the era.

Among the highlights of the Cluskey Vaults is their surprising resilience, having survived severe weather, urban development, and years of neglect. You would find signatures of time etched on their brick structures, narrating tales of their enduring existence. The vaults' location is also an attraction. They lie beneath the bustling Factor’s Walk, a network of iron and stone bridges, alleyways, garden courtyards, and cozy historic establishments. Being at the Cluskey Vaults puts you at the heart of Savannah's history, surrounded by reminders of the city's past while experiencing the vibrancy of its present.

Nearby historical landmarks only amplify the allure of the Cluskey Vaults. The Cotton Exchange Building and Statue of the Waving Girl, famed photographer Jack Leigh's home studio, and the iconic Savannah River are just a short stroll away. Exploring the vaults offers insight into Savannah's historical landscape, while also serving as an entry point to enjoy the city's other attractions.

The Cluskey Vaults are a fascinating layer of Savannah's rich and complex history. Whether you are drawn by the rumoured tales of the vault's past, intrigued by its resilient architectural style, or seeking a unique experience, a visit to the Cluskey Vaults offers a journey through time that is sure to intrigue and inspire. In the heart of Savannah, these vaults are a reminder of the city’s grit, history, and determination to preserve its story for future generations to explore and appreciate.


Try searching by keyword or choose a specific date.
By Date:
 
 
 
Looking For Something?