‘Midnight in the Garden’ 25 years later

Written by Gracie Williams and Colleen Miller / Illustrations by Lily Chambers

Already a storybook town, it has never been easier to live vicariously through a story than in historic Savannah, Georgia. “Midnight In The Garden of Good and Evil” written by John Berendt and published in 1994, is an infamous Savannah story highlighting the town’s southern charm and eccentric residents. The true story is told through the perspective of the New York-born author, as he becomes engulfed in the charm of Savannah and ends up with more involvement than he had anticipated. He eventually finds himself in the midst of new friend Jim Williams’ trials for the suspected murder of Billy Hanson. This cult-classic novel and film adaptation directed by Clint Eastwood has created a surge in the Savannah tourism industry.

“Elegant and wicked…. ‘Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil’ might be the first true-crime book that makes the reader want to book a bed and breakfast for an extended weekend at the scene of the crime,” said The New York Times Book Review.

Although some elements of the story are fictionalized, much of the setting includes real places that offer visitors a chance to experience the story for themselves. Four locations in particular overshadow the rest due to their relevance in the story, and have even become iconic symbols of Savannah. Through installments over the next four weeks, explore the roles that the Telfair Museum, Mercer-Williams House, Clary’s Cafe and Bonaventure Cemetery play in both the story and present-day Savannah.    

– Telfair Museum

The “Bird Girl Statue” immortalized on the novel’s cover is now on display within the museum after being moved from its original location in Bonaventure Cemetery. Learn how this statue has become a symbol of Savannah. 

– Mercer-Williams House

This 19th Century mansion was home to antique connoisseur Jim Williams. On top of the lavish annual Christmas parties, it is, more notably, the scene of the infamous shooting of Billy Hanson.

– Clary’s Cafe

Appearing in both the novel and the film adaptation, this restaurant serves not only breakfast and lunch, but also a unique chance to live like the characters of the story. Enjoy food, fiction and movie memorabilia.  

– Bonaventure Cemetery

This is Savannah’s most notable cemetery, and the location of many scenes in the story. In the novel, its haunted grounds serve as a playing field for Minerva’s voodoo, and eventually house the remains of Billy Hanson.

Whether you are a fan of the book, the movie adaptation or simply a history buff, these attractions are surely a sight to see. Relive the mysterious adventure of “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil” and uncover the history, and truth, behind each historic location.

“Rule number one: Always stick around for one more drink. That’s when things happen. That’s when you find out everything you want to know,” said character Joe Odom in the story.

 Stick around each week for one more drink, as the fine line between fact and fiction is distinguished.

Edited by Nick Thomsen