Waving Girl Statue - Florence Martus

At the east end of Savannah’s River Street, the Waving Girl Statue honors Florence Martus, who greeted ships entering the port with a wave from 1887 to 1931. The sculpture stands beside the river, where you can watch cargo ships and tugboats pass and take a break on nearby benches. It’s a quiet stop at the edge of the Riverwalk, with green space and views across the harbor. Pair it with a walk past River Street’s shops and restaurants.

Florence Martus and the ships

The statue commemorates Florence Martus, the sister of the Elba Island lighthouse keeper. From 1887 to 1931, she waved a cloth to ships entering Savannah’s port. The sculpture recalls a local figure associated with welcoming crews to the city.

A popular story says Martus had fallen in love with a sailor and promised to wait for his return. The account links her years of waving to that promise, though the monument itself is a tribute to her enduring connection with the river and its ships.

A stop at the eastern end of River Street

The statue is at the far east end of River Street, near East Broad Ramp. Its riverfront setting gives you a place to pause and watch harbor traffic, including cargo ships and tugboats. Benches and green space nearby make this a natural resting point after walking along the waterfront.

River Street’s shops, restaurants and local artisans are close by, so the statue fits easily into a longer walk. The city’s free transportation options and ferries can also help you explore nearby sights; check the route and service details before setting out.