French Catholic emigres established Savannah's first Parish, called Congregation de Saint Jean-Baptiste, shortly before the end of the 18th century.  They came to Savannah in the aftermath of an uprising in Haiti.  Among them were nobles fleeing the French Revolution.

The congregation grew through the addition of immigrants, and on May 30, 1799, the Mayor and Alderman of Savannah passed a resolution reserving half a trust lot on Liberty Square for the congregation's use.  One year later to the day the cornerstone was laid for the small frame church of Saint John the Baptist.

All of Georgia became part of the Diocese of Charleston when it was established in 1820, under Bishop John England. The Most Reverend J. Kevin Boland, the Thirteenth Bishop of Savannah announced a major restoration project for the Cathedral in September 1998.  Father William O. O'Neill, rector since 1996, was placed in charge of the project, which involved the removal, cleaning, and re-leading of over 50 stained glass windows, the replacement of the slate roof and the restoration of the interior in keeping with the architectural integrity of the building.  The project was completed in November 2000, in time for the celebration of the 150th anniversary of the diocese and the 100th anniversary of the rededication in 1900.

For more information on the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist follow the links below

Cathedral of St. John the Baptist Website
History of the Cathedral
Full Text History (PDF)