The applicant is requesting approval for the installation of a Georgia Historical Society Historical Marker within the public right-of-way of 342 Drayton Street. The historical marker is proposed to be installed within the sidewalk parallel to the East Charlton Street frontage of 342 Drayton Street.

The marker is proposed to read:

Colonial Group, Inc.

Originally American Oil Company

Raymond McAllister Demere founded the American Oil Company on July 21, 1921, as Savannah’s first independent wholesale petroleum company, and he opened his first service station at this site in 1923. Renamed Colonial Oil in 1933, the company is now known as Colonial Group, Inc. In 1934 the company built its first independent ocean terminal on the Savannah River, contributing to the growth and diversification of the Port of Savannah. In 1964 Colonial launched Interstate Stations, now Enmarket, for the operation of convenience stores in the Southeast. At its 100th anniversary in 2021, the fourth-generation family-owned company remained headquartered in Savannah and was one of the area’s largest employers having expanded with multiple, diverse subsidiaries to become one of the largest privately-held corporations in the United States.

Erected by the Georgia Historical Society and Colonial Group, Inc.

The applicant has stated that they have secured the necessary funds ($5,000) and has accepted the responsibility of all future maintenance of the marker, relinquishing the requirement of supplying an escrow payment to the City of Savannah.

The Historic Site and Monument Commission recommends approval to the Savannah City Council for the installation of a Georgia Historical Society Historical Marker at 342 Drayton Street, with the following condition, because the petition otherwise meets the guidelines set forth within the HSMC Masterplan and Guidelines.

1. Ensure the installation does not require removal or alteration of existing above or below ground utilities.

File # 20-005337-HM

Approval