10 North Myrtle Beach Historical Facts…
NORTH MYRTLE BEACH GUIDE
The earliest name recorded for the Myrtle Beach area was given by its original Native American inhabitants, who referred to it as "Chicora," meaning "the land." European settlers later named it "New Town." Over time, the settlement became known as "Myrtle Beach," inspired by the abundance of wax myrtle trees in the region—and, of course, the beach itself.
The term "Grand Strand" was coined by a local newspaper columnist in 1945, referring to the 60-mile stretch of coastline that extends from Georgetown in the south to Little River in the north. READ MORE.
North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, has a rich history shaped by its natural beauty, cultural developments, and the people who have lived there. Here are some notable historical facts about North Myrtle Beach:
1. Formation of North Myrtle Beach (1968)
North Myrtle Beach was incorporated as a city in 1968, bringing together four smaller communities: Cherry Grove Beach, Ocean Drive Beach, Crescent Beach, and Windy Hill Beach.
The consolidation aimed to provide better infrastructure and services to the growing coastal area.
2. Hurricane Hazel's Impact (1954)
Hurricane Hazel, a Category 4 storm, devastated North Myrtle Beach and much of the Grand Strand on October 15, 1954.
The storm destroyed nearly all beachfront structures, reshaping the area and prompting stricter building codes for future development.
3. Birthplace of Shag Dancing
Ocean Drive Beach, now part of North Myrtle Beach, is widely recognized as the birthplace of the Carolina Shag, the official state dance of South Carolina.
This iconic dance emerged in the 1940s and 1950s as locals and visitors flocked to beach clubs to enjoy rhythm and blues music.
4. The Fishing Heritage of Cherry Grove
Cherry Grove Beach has long been known for its fishing culture. In the early 1900s, fishing camps and small wooden piers were popular in the area.
The Cherry Grove Fishing Pier, built in the 1950s, remains an iconic spot for fishing and recreation.
5. Intracoastal Waterway (1930s)
The completion of the Intracoastal Waterway in the 1930s was a major milestone for North Myrtle Beach, providing a navigable inland route for boats and helping the area grow as a hub for fishing, trade, and tourism.
6. Native American Roots
The area was originally inhabited by the Waccamaw Native Americans, who relied on the nearby rivers, forests, and coastline for food and shelter.
The Waccamaw left behind artifacts and burial mounds that provide insights into their culture and way of life.
7. Tourism Boom of the Mid-20th Century
Starting in the 1940s and 1950s, the area saw a significant increase in tourism as people from across the country came to enjoy the pristine beaches, mild climate, and vibrant nightlife.
Small family-owned motels and seafood restaurants lined the oceanfront, setting the stage for North Myrtle Beach’s development as a major vacation destination.
8. Barefoot Landing (1988)
Opened in 1988, Barefoot Landing became one of North Myrtle Beach's premier attractions. Located along the Intracoastal Waterway, this entertainment complex features shopping, dining, and live performances, blending the area’s history with modern tourism.
9. Connection to Pirates
Like other parts of the Grand Strand, North Myrtle Beach is steeped in pirate lore. During the Golden Age of Piracy, the region's inlets and marshes were used as hideouts for pirates, including the infamous Blackbeard.
10. Environmental Preservation
Heritage Shores Nature Preserve, located in Cherry Grove, highlights the city’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty. The preserve protects marshlands and provides educational opportunities about the area’s coastal ecosystems.
North Myrtle Beach continues to celebrate its history while evolving into a vibrant destination known for its beaches, culture, and community spirit.
