Savannah’s Waving Girl

The Waving Girl of Savannah, Georgia, is legendary in the city’s history. Her real name was Florence Martus, and she was born in 1869 on Elba Island, located at the mouth of the Savannah River. Florence and her brother, George, lived in a small cottage on the island and would often wave at passing ships as they sailed up and down the river.

History of the Waving Girl

Florence, known for her friendly nature, would stand on the banks of the river and wave at passing ships, day or night, through calm and stormy weather. Florence’s story began when her father was assigned to work as the lighthouse keeper at the Cockspur Island Lighthouse. Florence and her family moved to Elba Island, and it was there that she began to wave at passing ships.

Over time, Florence became a familiar sight to the sailors and captains who passed by, and many of them would blow their horns and wave back at her. She also became known for lighting a lantern at night to guide ships safely through the channel. Florence became a fixture on the river and a beloved symbol of Savannah, and her dedication earned her the nickname “the Waving Girl.”

Legend

However, many stories surround the Waving Girl, including one about a lost love at sea. According to legend, Florence fell in love with a sailor who promised to return to her. When he failed to return and was believed to be lost at sea, Florence continued to wave at passing ships in the hope that her ture love would come back to her. Florence Martus continued to wave at passing vessels for over 40 years until she died in 1943.

The legend of the Waving Girl lives on in Savannah today, with a statue in her honor located on River Street. Her story is a testament to the power of human connection, and the enduring impact that a simple act of kindness can have on those around us.