Conway

Conway, South Carolina, is a charming city located in Horry County, just a short drive inland from Myrtle Beach. Known for its historic southern charm, Conway is rich in culture and natural beauty. Here are some highlights about Conway:

Historic Downtown

• Downtown Conway boasts oak-lined streets and many historic buildings. The Conway Riverwalk is a popular spot that winds along the Waccamaw River, offering picturesque views, benches, and scenic pathways.

• Some of the buildings date back to the late 1800s, and many are preserved in the Historic District, giving a glimpse into the area's architectural past.

Waccamaw River

• The Waccamaw River is a prominent feature in Conway. Besides the Riverwalk, the river offers opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and boating.

• The river’s swampy, cypress-lined surroundings add to the town’s natural beauty, and you can often spot wildlife like turtles, birds, and fish.

Coastal Carolina University

• Conway is home to Coastal Carolina University (CCU), a public liberal arts university known for its strong academic programs and lively campus life.

• CCU also offers a range of sports, cultural events, and performances that residents and visitors can attend.

Festivals and Events

• Conway hosts various local events and festivals, such as the Rivertown Music & Arts Festival, which features local music, art, and food.

• The Conway Christmas Parade and annual Riverfest are also popular, drawing both locals and tourists.

Local Food and Dining

• Conway has a vibrant food scene with a mix of Southern comfort food, seafood, and farm-to-table options. There are several local cafes, barbecue joints, and family-owned restaurants that provide authentic Southern flavors.

Nearby Attractions

• Being close to Myrtle Beach, Conway offers residents and visitors easy access to the beach and attractions like the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, golf courses, and amusement parks without the hustle and bustle of the coast.

Conway combines the appeal of a small, historic town with easy access to coastal attractions, making it a unique place to live or visit. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or university life, Conway has a lot to offer.

Conway, South Carolina, has a rich history dating back to the colonial era. Located along the Waccamaw River, Conway was initially inhabited by the Waccamaw Native American tribe. European settlers arrived in the early 18th century, and by the 1730s, the area began to develop as a key settlement in what was then the British colony of South Carolina.

Early Settlement and Colonial Era

Originally known as "Kingston," Conway was founded in 1732 as part of a plan to establish multiple townships along South Carolina’s rivers. These rivers made travel and trade more accessible, so settlers built homes and established small communities along the riverbanks. The town of Kingston became an important site for farmers and merchants trading goods along the Waccamaw River.

In 1801, after the American Revolutionary War, the town’s name was changed to "Conwayborough" to honor General Robert Conway, a Revolutionary War hero and local legislator. The name was later shortened to "Conway" in 1883.

Civil War and Reconstruction

Conway played a minor role in the Civil War due to its inland location, and it was spared much of the destruction that affected other Southern towns. However, the war and subsequent Reconstruction had economic impacts, with the local agricultural economy suffering due to the end of slavery and changing market conditions. Many former plantations were transformed into small farms worked by freedmen and sharecroppers.

Economic Development and Growth

The introduction of railroads in the late 19th century significantly boosted Conway's economy, helping to expand timber, agriculture, and trade in the region. By the early 20th century, logging and lumber production were primary industries, given the abundance of forests surrounding Conway.

Conway began to grow steadily, and with new roads built in the 1920s and 1930s, it became better connected to neighboring areas, including Myrtle Beach, which was starting to attract tourists. Conway served as a gateway to the beach, and its economy benefited from this tourism boom.

Modern Development and Coastal Carolina University

The 1954 establishment of Coastal Carolina Junior College, now Coastal Carolina University, brought a new wave of development to Conway. The university has grown to be one of the area’s primary educational and economic hubs, bringing thousands of students to the region each year. This growth led to a surge in businesses, housing, and cultural amenities in and around Conway.

Today

Conway has preserved much of its historical charm, with its picturesque downtown area featuring old oak trees, historic buildings, and riverwalk along the Waccamaw River. Modern Conway balances its small-town feel with the amenities of a growing city and continues to be a vital part of the Myrtle Beach metropolitan area, known for its welcoming community, history, and natural beauty.