Bryan County – Where People Love Where They Live!
The lovely countryside surrounding beautiful Savannah, Georgia is considered by many to be the ideal place to call home. A prime tract of land alongside the Ogeechee River, formerly known as St. Phillips Parish, was one of the original land grants awarded by the founder of the colony of Georgia, James Oglethorpe, in 1734.
Renamed Bryan County in 1793, the governing justices valued 2 acres of land at the intersection of Savannah-Darien Stage Road (now US 17) and Bryan Neck Road (GA Hwy 144) at $24 and designated it as the future courthouse site. Originally called Cross Roads, the location became Ways Station in 1856. In 1941, it was renamed Richmond Hill—a community that would soon thrive.
Much of the region’s early growth can be attributed to industrialist Henry Ford, best known for founding Ford Motor Company. After first visiting the area in the mid-1920s, he quickly decided to make it his winter home. Ford built his mansion on the former site of Richmond Plantation, which had been burned during Sherman’s historic March to the Sea.
Ford also constructed several community buildings still in use today, including a kindergarten now home to the Richmond Hill Historical Society and Museum, and a chapel that is today’s St. Anne’s Catholic Church. He even purchased historic Fort McAllister, preserving it from ruin before later donating it to the state.
Residents once proposed naming their town “Ford” in his honor, but he politely declined. Instead, they chose the name “Richmond Hill,” inspired by Ford’s home overlooking the Ogeechee River.
Incorporated as a city in 1962, Richmond Hill remains the bustling hub of Bryan County. Rich in history and Southern charm, the city offers community activities, ample shopping, entertainment, beautiful parks, a wide range of restaurants, and access to the highly rated Bryan County Schools—consistently ranked among the top in Georgia.
Richmond Hill’s two full-service marinas provide easy access to the area’s rivers and creeks, offering exceptional fishing, crabbing, boating, and water sports. Home to more than 14,000 residents, the city is one of the fastest-growing in the nation. With its close proximity to Savannah—only about 20 minutes away—Richmond Hill is a favorite destination for families seeking a peaceful lifestyle with access to a culturally rich city.
The community is also known for low unemployment, low property taxes, and ongoing efforts to attract new businesses. Richmond Hill consistently ranks as one of the safest cities in Georgia, recognized by the SafeWise Report for its low crime rate.
Its convenient access to both Hunter Army Airfield and Fort Stewart makes Richmond Hill a top choice for relocating military families. Warm, welcoming Bryan County is the ideal place for newcomers and businesses alike, and its residents are always eager to share the unique charms of their hometown with the world.
If you're searching for a new home in this beautiful area, explore our Richmond Hill communities or browse all of our new home communities across Coastal Georgia. Have questions? Contact our team — we’re here to help you find the perfect place to call home.
