EBENEZER HISTORIC DISTRICT

Effingham County, Georgia

A Historic Settlement of Faith, Freedom & Heritage

A National Historic Landmark

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places

A Legacy of Faith Since 1734

Home of Georgia’s Salzburger settlers and one of America’s earliest Lutheran congregations.

1. Early Beginnings

Founded in 1734 by about 150 Protestant Salzburger refugees from Austria, invited by General James Oglethorpe. 

 They settled along Ebenezer Creek seeking religious freedom and a new life in Georgia.

2. New Ebenezer and Growth

In 1736, settlers moved east to New Ebenezer, where the community prospered through farming, silk production,

 and trade along the Savannah River, becoming one of Georgia’s most successful early settlements.

3. Revolutionary War Role

Ebenezer was a strategic location during the American Revolutionary War. British forces occupied the town from 1779 to 1782.

 In 1782, the Georgia legislature met here, making it the temporary capital of Georgia.

4. Jerusalem Lutheran Church

Completed in 1769, Jerusalem Lutheran Church is one of the oldest surviving Lutheran churches 

in the United States and home to the nation’s oldest continuously active Lutheran congregation.

5. Historic Landmark & Archaeology

Archaeological remains of the colonial town, cemetery, and artifacts preserve nearly 300 years of history.

 The district is a National Historic Landmark and a National Register of Historic Places site.

6. Today

Ebenezer Historic District stands as a lasting tribute to the courage, faith, and heritage of

 Georgia’s earliest settlers. Visitors can explore, learn, and reflect on its rich colonial past.

What Makes This Landmark Special

One of America’s earliest settlements founded for religious freedom.

Preserves the legacy of the Salzburger settlers.

Home of one of the oldest Lutheran churches in the United States.

Played an important role during the American Revolutionary War.

A National Historic Landmark and archaeological treasure.

Beautiful historic grounds along Ebenezer Creek and the Savannah River.

Preserving Georgia’s Heritage. Honoring Our Past. Inspiring Our Future.

EFFINGHAM COUNTY, GEORGIA