The Rich History of Myrtle Beach and Why You Need to Visit

Nestled along the southeastern coast of the United States, there lay a pristine stretch of
shoreline kissed by the Atlantic Ocean. This magical place, known today as Myrtle Beach, South
Carolina, has a rich and vibrant history that spans centuries.

Long before the arrival of European settlers, the area was inhabited by Native American tribes, including
the Waccamaw and Winyah people, who revered the land for its natural beauty and abundance of
resources. They lived in harmony with the coastal ecosystem, fishing its waters and gathering fruits from
its forests.

In the late 17th century, European explorers and traders began to venture into the region. The Spanish
were among the first to set foot on its shores, followed by the English who established the Province of
Carolina in 1663. Over the years, the land exchanged hands between various colonial powers, and by
the 18th century, it became part of the British Crown’s holdings.

As the United States gained independence in the late 18th century, the area around Myrtle Beach
remained largely undeveloped and sparsely populated. It wasn’t until the late 19th century that the region
began to see significant growth and attention.

One of the key figures in the early development of Myrtle Beach was Franklin Burroughs. In the late 19th
century, Burroughs recognized the potential of the area for timber and established the Burroughs &
Collins Company, which became one of the largest timber operations on the East Coast. His efforts not
only brought economic prosperity to the region but also laid the foundation for future development.

However, it wasn’t until the early 20th century that Myrtle Beach began to emerge as a popular tourist
destination. The completion of the Intracoastal Waterway in the 1930s made the area more accessible,
attracting visitors from across the country. With its pristine beaches, warm climate, and abundant natural
beauty, Myrtle Beach soon became known as the “Grand Strand” and attracted tourists seeking sun,
sand, and relaxation.

The development of Myrtle Beach as a tourist destination continued to accelerate in the post-World War
II era. The construction of highways and the establishment of Myrtle Beach Air Force Base brought even
more visitors to the area. Motels, hotels, and amusement parks sprung up along the coastline, catering to
the growing tourism industry.

In the latter half of the 20th century and into the 21st century, Myrtle Beach continued to evolve and grow.
It became not only a popular vacation spot but also a thriving community with a diverse population and a
strong economy driven by tourism, hospitality, and retail.

Today, Myrtle Beach stands as a testament to the resilience and spirit of its people. From its humble
beginnings as a remote coastal outpost to its status as one of the premier vacation destinations in the
United States, Myrtle Beach’s history is a tale of growth, innovation, and the enduring allure of the sea.

Come and enjoy all of the things Myrtle Beach has to offer, contact me to Customize your Perfect Oceanside Vacation