2022 SAR National Congress: July 10-15, 2022
The Turning Point in the Southern Campaign
Historic Savannah, Georgia
The British began to implement their “Southern Strategy” in late 1778, in Georgia. It initially achieved success with the capture of Savannah, Georgia, which was followed in 1780 by operations in South Carolina that included the defeat of Continental forces at Charleston and Camden. General Nathanael Greene, who took over as Continental Army Southern commander after Camden, engaged in a strategy of avoidance and attrition against the British. The two forces fought a string of battles and the high cost in casualties left the British Army strategically weakened, while the Continental Army remained largely intact to continue fighting. This was best exemplified by the Battle of Guilford Courthouse. American victories at the Battle of Ramseur’s Mill, the Battle of Cowpens, and the Battle of Kings Mountain, served as the turning point in the Southern Campaign and forced the British retreat to Yorktown. The Siege of Yorktown, ended with the surrender of British General Lord Cornwallis on October 19, 1781.
In 1778, British policymakers and strategists decided to refocus their efforts on the southern colonies, where they believed the crown would enjoy the support of a large Loyalist population. As part of that effort, a British army under Lieutenant Colonel Archibald Campbell captured the city of Savannah, Georgia on December 29, 1778.
In the fall of 1779, the Patriots were determined to take the city back.
In 2022 Georgia will host the National Congress in Historic Savannah at the Hyatt Regency Riverfront Hotel. The Hyatt Hotel is in the Savannah Historic District, with direct access to the cobblestoned River Street, puts you steps away from monuments, shops, local restaurants, and live music. Experience the city’s unique spirit on a ghost tour or paddle-steamer ride, then unwind with a cocktail on our outdoor patio overlooking the Savannah River.
Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) is the closest airport to Savannah, GA, located 12 miles northwest of the Historic District., served by all major airlines. Alternative airports are:
- Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) – 75 miles south of Savannah
- Charleston International Airport (CHS) – 100 miles north of Savannah
- Augusta Regional Airport (AGS) – 112 miles north of Savannah
- Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta (ATL) – 250 miles northwest of Savannah
- Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) – 250 miles north of Savannah
Mark your calendars now for July 10th through 15th and plan to attend.