Savannah to Atlanta

This morning I drove from Savannah to Atlanta. It has been some time since I was inland as the last few weeks have all been in coastal locations.

I had a short time this afternoon to walk around the neighborhood of my hotel. I first walked over to Woodruff park , a small green space a couple of blocks away. It boasts a couple of fountains, and also has tables and chairs, as well as a play area. It happened to be a beautiful day - finally. 70 and sunny, with low humidity. Many people were enjoying the park.

I then walked a few blocks in the other direction to visit Olympic Centennial park . Recollect that this was the site of the infamous bombing at a late night concert during the 1996 Olympics. Originally Richard Jewell, a security guard who acted heroically to clear people from the area, was accused of setting the bomb. Later the culprit was determined to be Eric Rudolph, who was also responsible for several other bombings. In addition to various statues and installations commemorating the Olympics, there is both a Quilt of Remembrance for the bombing victims and a tribute to Richard Jewell.

I also found out that the Ellis Hotel at which I am staying has an interesting history. Originally the Winecoff hotel, it was the site of the deadliest hotel fire in American history . This incident directly led to many of the safety protocols and building codes required today for hotels. The Ellis is also named a National Historic Site . This is evident in both the building and the furnishings. And, unlike the Aloft in Savannah, you get to control the thermostat in your room. Really, could I make this up?

Tomorrow I will explore Atlanta.