Introduction
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is a beloved coastal destination known for its stunning beaches, vibrant entertainment, and rich history. This comprehensive guide will take you on a journey through time, exploring the fascinating evolution of Myrtle Beach from its early days as a sparsely populated coastal area to its current status as one of the most popular vacation spots in the United States.
Early Settlement and Native American Presence
Long before European settlers arrived, the area now known as Myrtle Beach was home to various Native American tribes, including the Waccamaw and Winyah peoples. These indigenous communities thrived along the coast, taking advantage of the abundant natural resources provided by the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding forests.
The first European explorers to reach the area were Spanish and French expeditions in the 16th century. However, it wasn’t until the late 18th century that permanent European settlements began to take root. The early settlement of Myrtle Beach was characterized by small farming and fishing communities, with residents living off the land and sea.
The Birth of a Resort Town
The transformation of Myrtle Beach into a tourist destination began in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In 1881, the Burroughs and Collins Company, a timber and turpentine firm, purchased much of the land that would eventually become Myrtle Beach. The company saw potential in the area’s natural beauty and began to develop it for tourism.
In 1901, the Seaside Inn, Myrtle Beach’s first hotel, was built. This modest boarding house marked the beginning of the area’s transformation into a resort town. The name “Myrtle Beach” was coined around this time, inspired by the abundance of wax myrtle shrubs growing wild along the coast.
The Arrival of the Railroad and Early Growth
A significant milestone in Myrtle Beach’s development came in 1902 when the railroad reached the area. This new transportation link made it much easier for visitors to access the beach, spurring rapid growth and development. The Myrtle Beach Farms Company, formed in 1912, played a crucial role in this expansion, developing much of the beachfront property and promoting tourism.
The Pavilion and the Birth of the Grand Strand
In 1908, the Myrtle Beach Pavilion was built, becoming a central attraction for visitors. The Pavilion, which would later be expanded and modernized, served as a gathering place for dancing, concerts, and other entertainment for nearly a century before its closure in 2006.
The term “Grand Strand” was coined in 1949 by columnist Claude Dunnagan, referring to the 60-mile stretch of beaches from Little River to Georgetown. This name helped to brand the entire region as a unified tourist destination.
Post-World War II Boom
The years following World War II saw explosive growth in Myrtle Beach. The opening of the Myrtle Beach Air Force Base in 1940 brought an influx of military personnel and their families to the area. After the war, many veterans who had trained at the base returned to settle in the region, contributing to its rapid expansion.
The development timeline of Myrtle Beach shows a significant acceleration in the 1950s and 1960s. New hotels, restaurants, and attractions sprang up along the beachfront, catering to the growing number of tourists flocking to the area. The construction of major highways, including U.S. Route 17 and later Interstate 95, made Myrtle Beach more accessible to visitors from across the country.
The Rise of Golf and Entertainment
In the 1960s and 1970s, Myrtle Beach began to establish itself as a premier golfing destination. The first golf course in the area, Pine Lakes Country Club, had opened in 1927, but it was during this later period that the number of courses exploded. Today, the Grand Strand boasts over 100 golf courses, earning it the nickname “Golf Capital of the World.”
Entertainment options also expanded rapidly during this time. The Carolina Opry, founded in 1986, brought big-name musical performances to the area. The opening of Broadway at the Beach in 1995 created a massive entertainment complex featuring restaurants, shops, and attractions.
Modern Myrtle Beach
Today, Myrtle Beach is a thriving tourist destination that welcomes millions of visitors each year. While the city has come a long way from its humble beginnings, it still retains traces of its rich history. Myrtle Beach’s historical sites offer visitors a glimpse into the area’s past, from the quaint Myrtle Beach Train Depot to the historic Myrtle Beach Atlantic Coast Line Railroad Station.
The city continues to evolve, with new attractions and developments constantly emerging. The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, opened in 2010, has become a central feature of the downtown area, offering a mix of modern amenities and old-fashioned charm.
Preserving the Past
As Myrtle Beach looks to the future, efforts are being made to preserve its rich history. The Historic Myrtle Beach Colored School Museum and Education Center, opened in 2006, celebrates the African American community’s contributions to the area’s development. The Franklin G. Burroughs – Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum, housed in a 1924 beach house, showcases both historical artifacts and contemporary art.
Conclusion
The history of Myrtle Beach is a testament to the power of vision, development, and natural beauty. From its early days as a quiet coastal settlement to its current status as a world-renowned beach destination, Myrtle Beach has undergone a remarkable transformation. As we look back on this rich history, we can appreciate the many factors that have shaped this beloved coastal community and look forward to the continued evolution of the Grand Strand in the years to come.
Whether you’re a history buff, a beach lover, or simply curious about the origins of one of America’s favorite vacation spots, exploring the history of Myrtle Beach offers a fascinating journey through time. By understanding the past, we can better appreciate the present and look forward to the future of this dynamic coastal gem.