These history attractions put Myrtle Beach’s past on full display
With its 60 miles of sandy beaches, mild subtropical weather and events and activities that please a variety of tastes, South Carolina’s Myrtle Beach is an ideal spot for groups to visit any time of the year. Myrtle Beach also boasts a rich heritage and these three attractions showcase the city’s fascinating history.
Myrtle Beach’s Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B Chapin Art Museum
The Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B Chapin Art Museum was first opened in June of 1997, but the idea for creating the museum first came into existence 13 years earlier by a group of visionaries in Myrtle Beach. In 1975, the Villa was scheduled for demolition. As a result, a campaign was made to save Springmaid Villa, but the building’s survival was dependent on its relocation. The museum is dedicated to being one of the finest visual arts museums in the Carolinas. It strives to engage its visitors through unique exhibitions and interactive, educational and creative programs.
For more information, simply Visit the Myrtle Beach Art Museum Website
Charlie’s Place Tour
Charlie’s Place in Myrtle Beach
Charlie’s Place functioned as a gathering spot and performance venue for several Black performers, such as Dizzy Gillespie, Little Richard, Duke Ellington, Billie Holiday, Lena Horne, and countless others. During the late 1930s to early 1960s in the Booker T. Washington Neighborhood of Myrtle Beach, these names were renowned artists. Charlie’s Place was a prominent African American nightclub while simultaneously being a small hotel; the owners were Charlie Fitzgerald and his wife Sarah. Before integration, Black artists were not allowed to perform at white venues and use hotel facilities. But at Charlie’s Place, they could perform, stay the night, and enjoy a meal gathered around both Black and white people. Tours are available on Tuesdays and Fridays. Call 843-918-1062 or email neighborhoodservices@cityofmyrtlebeach.com.
Former Air Force Base in Myrtle Beach
Before the Air Force Base’s land was donated to the Air Force for construction of the former Myrtle Beach Air Force Base (BRAC 1991), the land had many previous purposes. In 1943, it was the Myrtle Beach Army Air Field. By 1945, the base was used for support for special activities and recruitment. Then, by 1947, the property was given to the city of Myrtle Beach to repurpose it as a municipal airport. In 1954, the city donated the land to the Air Force and it was remodeled for a modern Air Force base. The 3,936-acre former Air Force Base is now home to The Market Common and surrounding neighborhoods, with thousands of new homes, a dozen parks, walking trails and sporting facilities, along with Myrtle Beach International Airport, Whispering Pines Golf Course, the International Technology and Aerospace Park and other commercial, educational and residential developments.
For more information be sure to visit the Myrtle Beach website or fill out the form below.
