Oglethorpe Day: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about Oglethorpe Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. Oglethorpe Day is observed on February 12th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of Oglethorpe Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as important facts you might want to know about Oglethorpe Day.

📅 What day is Oglethorpe Day 2024?

In 2024, Oglethorpe Day is on Sunday, February 12th. It is the 2nd Sunday in February; in 2024, it is Monday. There are until the next observance. You also can learn all the exciting details and facts about February 12, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

Oglethorpe Day, also known as Georgia Day, is an annual celebration held on February 12th. It marks the landing of General James E. Oglethorpe in Georgia in 1733. Unlike other national holidays, which usually involve specific customs, Oglethorpe Day is primarily celebrated in educational settings such as schools and universities. The day is dedicated to honoring Oglethorpe and the establishment of Georgia in 1733.

📜 Oglethorpe Day History

In November 1732, General Oglethorpe and his soldiers received permission from King George II to settle in the United States. They arrived on American shores on February 2, 1733. After leaving some soldiers in South Carolina, the majority of the crew sailed to the Savannah River and anchored at Yamacraw Bluff. This marked their arrival in Georgia, named after King George II, and became the thirteenth British colony in America.

Before establishing themselves in the region, Oglethorpe met with local chieftains. With the support of Creek chief Tomochichi, Oglethorpe and his soldiers founded the state of Georgia. Oglethorpe’s motto since his arrival has been “Non-Sibi Sed Aliis,” meaning “not for self, but for others.” He became one of the first American colonists to ban slavery and large-scale land ownership.

In terms of celebrating this day, schools, universities, and civic institutions have marked it in creative ways. Some schools organize races called the “Petrels of Fire Race,” while others stage plays and skits. Though the holiday is no longer widely observed at the state level and its official status is unknown, schools and universities have continued to commemorate it in their own unique ways. The last commemorative postal stamp was issued in 1983, and Georgia has not shown much enthusiasm for celebrating the day since then.

✅ Oglethorpe Day Facts

🔖 Headquarters to civil rights movement
Martin Luther King Jr. was born in Georgia, the state that also served as the central hub for the civil rights movement.

🔖 Coca-Cola was invented in Georgia
Oglethorpe and his soldiers from Georgia are credited with developing Coca-Cola, a widely adored beverage enjoyed by billions globally.

🔖 Served under-cover in the Prussian army
Following his defeat in the legislature, Oglethorpe decided to become a spy for the Prussian army during the seven-year war.

👍 Why Is Oglethorpe Day Important

The day should be observed as a mark of respect and appreciation for Georgia’s founder. Our national heroes and founders should always be remembered with pride.

The majority of the colonists who arrived in America had only one purpose in mind. The goal was to amass wealth and become independent of the crown. They enslaved the locals in order to amass money for themselves. Oglethorpe, on the other hand, prohibited slavery and massive land occupation. This alone merits recognition.

It is always beneficial to demonstrate patriotism. This day gives any Georgian a reason to celebrate the history of their home state and be proud to be a Georgian.

🙂 How To Observe Oglethorpe Day

⚡ Read about Oglethorpe or Georgia’s history
Exploring the history of one’s country and its founding figures is consistently fascinating. Often, it is enjoyable to commemorate such occasions by delving into books or engaging in conversations about the local history.

⚡ Go to Yamacraw Bluff at Savannah
Visiting this historical site is the most fitting way to honor the day since it was the place where Oglethorpe and his troops docked their ship. Why are you hesitating?

⚡ Participate in your local school and college celebrations
Make sure to join in on one of the activities organized by your school or college for the day. You’re guaranteed to have a great time!

📅 When is Oglethorpe Day?

Explore all 🔗 February holidays, including 🔗 Cause and other 🔗 Appreciation holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and must-know facts about Oglethorpe Day. So be sure to check back soon.