Charleston had been established by the wealthy rice plantation owners and the ship merchants. It had been the wealthiest city in America. Savannah was settled by the skilled workers,  men and women slated for debtor's prison when given the chance to go to the new world. The historic district is laid out around 22 squares, with large southern oaks dripping with spanish moss. Charleston is very beautiful and more formal, while Savannah is much more laid back. Both cities are very steeped in history.