This Day in Georgia History
October 03, 1739
Oglethorpe Prepared Colonists for War
Aware that England was about to declare war on Spain, James Oglethorpe called on Savannah militia members to fall into formation. With drums beating and local magistrates in their official robes, he announced that Britain and Spain were now at war (though the official declaration did not come until Oct. 23). Aware that on the North American mainland, Georgia would probably be the first battlefield in this war, Oglethorpe warned colonists to be on alert. The militia saluted the announcement with three rifle vollies, and a cannon was fired. Thus, Georgia prepared for what would be called the War of Jenkins’ Ear.
