Welcome to the Savannah Sideways Podcast – Season One – The Strange Story of Savannah’s Ancient Roman Statuary.
In this penultimate episode, host Jessica Leigh Lebos finally gains rare access to the Greenwich statues after years of research, persistence, and archival sleuthing. Accompanied by Luciana Spracher, the City of Savannah archivist, and Dr. Mark Abbe, she steps into a hidden storage space on the edge of the city and encounters centuries-old marble pieces that have remained out of public view for decades.
Standing among the statues, Jessica reflects on the layers of history, artistry, and human ambition embedded in each piece. Savannah Alderman Nick Palumbo shares his perspective on the city’s role in preserving these treasures, highlighting the challenges and decisions involved in caring for such a unique collection. Questions about their origins, authenticity, and significance linger—but the biggest question remains: What will happen to them next?
As the statues remain in the city’s care, this episode leaves listeners with a sense of discovery, reverence, and anticipation for the final chapter of the Savannah Sideways Podcast Season One: The Strange Story of Savannah’s Ancient Roman Statuary.
SHOW LINKS:
Check out Savannah Sideways Substack
Meet the Producers: Dee Daniels Media
THANKS TO THOSE WHO MADE THIS SHOW POSSIBLE:
Dr. Erika Morrow and the team at ForSight Unique Eye Care & Eye Wear
Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum
FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 The Big Reveal
00:17 First Encounter with the Statues
02:08 Dr. Abbey's Examination
03:33 Historical Context and Provenance
05:07 Repatriation and Ethical Considerations
10:23 The Future of the Statues
13:51 Savannah's Economic Growth and Preservation
16:25 Conclusion and Final Thoughts