Savannah, Georgia, a city known for its moss-draped oaks and rich history, is home to countless stories of love, loss, and mystery. Among these tales is the life and legacy of Corrine Elliott Lawton, whose tragic story continues to captivate visitors to Savannah’s Bonaventure Cemetery. Though her life was brief, the lore surrounding her untimely death has cemented her place in Savannah’s history and imagination.
The Daughter of a Prominent Savannah Family, Corrine was born in Savannah in 1846 to Alexander Robert Lawton and Sarah Hillhouse Lawton, one of the city’s most prominent families. Her father, a Confederate general, lawyer, and later a U.S. ambassador, ensured that Corrine grew up in an environment of privilege and refinement. As the eldest daughter, she was known for her beauty, charm, and wit. These qualities made her a beloved figure in Savannah society. Despite her privileged upbringing, her life was not without sorrow. Corrine grew up during the turbulent years of the Civil War. This was a time that brought great loss and uncertainty to many Southern families, including her own.
Corrine’s story, as it is often told, is one of heartbreak and tragedy. According to local legend, She fell in love with a man her family did not approve of, and she was pressured into an arranged marriage with another suitor. Unable to reconcile her love and duty, Corrine is said to have drowned herself in the nearby Savannah River on the eve of her wedding. This version of events has been passed down for generations, adding an air of romantic tragedy to Corrine’s story.
However, historical records, including her mother’s diary, tell a different story entirely. Corrine passed away on January 24, 1877 at the age of 31, from an illness rather than suicide. Corinne most likely died of Yellow Fever, a disease with a sudden onset and a mortality rate of 50% in severe epidemics. Savannah did suffer an epidemic of Yellow Fever in 1876 that continued into early 1877 when Corrine died. She was 30 years old. The contrast between the legend and the documented facts only deepens the mystery surrounding her life and death.
Corrine’s final resting place is marked by one of Bonaventure Cemetery’s most iconic monuments, designed by Italian sculptor Benedetto Civiletti. The life-sized statue depicts Corrine dressed in a flowing gown, seated on a stone pedestal, her gaze cast downward. The statue exudes a sense of quiet sorrow, which has fueled the romanticized stories of her tragic life. The epitaph on her grave reads: Allured to brighter worlds, and led the way. This poignant inscription, combined with the serene beauty of her memorial, draws countless visitors to Bonaventure Cemetery each year.
While the true details of Corrine’s life may never be fully known, her story continues to be an integral part of Savannah’s cultural fabric. The blend of fact and folklore surrounding her has made her one of the city’s most enduring figures, and her statue remains a symbol of love,
loss, and the power of memory. For those exploring Savannah’s historic sites, a visit to Bonaventure Cemetery offers a chance to reflect on the life of Corrine Elliott Lawton and the countless other stories that make up the city’s rich tapestry.
Join Wise Guys Tours to uncover the mysteries and legends of Savannah’s past. From the grandeur of Bonaventure Cemetery to the storied streets of the Historic District, we’ll take you on a journey through the lives of some truly incredible historic figures.