Monterey Square's name pays homage to the American Victory in the Mexican - American War of 1846. This Square was laid out in 1847.
Monterey Square is one of the twenty two (22) squares of twenty four (24) designed by English visionary, General James Oglethorpe.
Interestingly, this square, as well as others along Bull Street, are the home of memorials and monuments honoring American Revolutionary War heroes.
Highlights of Monterey Square:
*The focal point of Monterey Square is the Pulaski Monument. It is placed here in honor of American Revolution War hero Casimir Pulaski, Polish nobleman, and was dedicated in 1855.
* R.E. Launitz sculpted the monument from Italian marble.
*The bas-relief depicts the Revolutionary hero mortally wounded on October 9, 1779.
*According to sculptor Robert E. Launitz, "...the eagle, emblem of liberty, independence, and courage, rest on both shields, bidding proud defiance - the eagle being the symbolic bird of both Poland and America."
*Lady Liberty stands atop of the monument.
*Remains of Pulaski are said to be buried at the base of the monument. Some historians believe he was buried at sea. The mystery remains.
* The oldest synagogue in the state, founded 1733, stands on the SE corner of Monterey Square. It is the third oldest congregation in the United States.
* The Comer House, on the NE corner, was host to Jefferson Davis in 1886. See historical marker.
* In 1860 construction began on the Mercer-Williams House, on the SW corner, by confederate General Hugh Mercer. Construction was halted during the Civil War. General Mercer lost his fortune during the war, was unable to complete construction, and sold the property. Therefore, he never lived in the house for which he is the namesake.
*The Mercer-Williams house is well known for its last occupant, the late Jim Williams, and the murder that took place here as featured in the book and movie, Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. The movie was filmed at this location. read more