The History of Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach wasn’t always the bustling tourist and golf destination that it is now. Originally inhabited by the Waccamaw Indians the area did not see any significant growth until after the Civil War when the Conway Lumber Company bought land and built the Conway & Seashore Railroad which was mainly used to move lumber but also opened the gateway to allow travelers to more easily access the beach.

In 1900 the Seaside Inn was built to accommodate visitors to the area and a contest was held to rename the town which up until that point was simply referred to as New Town. Inspired by the abundance of wax myrtle trees growing wild along the shoreline Mrs. F.E. Burroughs suggested the name Myrtle Beach and the town was born.

During the 1920’s,30’s & 40’s steady growth and development continued with the addition of an upscale resort called Arcady which was located at what is now known as Pine Lakes International Country Club and the completion of the Ocean Forest Hotel which was the 1st oceanfront resort in Myrtle Beach. It was also during this time frame that Myrtle Beach became home to an Air Force Base and the legendary Myrtle Beach Pavilion was built.

The present day title of Seaside golf capital of the world may not have come about if not for Hurricane Hazel in 1954. Damage after Hazel was tremendous and widespread and it was during the rebuilding process that early developers had the vision of Myrtle Beach as a golf destination. Currently Myrtle Beach is home to over 100 world class golf courses.

During the 70’s the area saw an explosion in the population as more service members who were stationed here decided to call the area home after their military time was up. The building and completion of the convention and visitors center also took place during this time frame.

Steady growth continued during the 80’s and 90’s with more and more resorts occupying prime coastal space previously held by smaller mom and pop hotels. Our little secret was out and Myrtle Beach quickly became known as one of the top beach destinations in the country. A title that we still retain today.

With the addition of shopping malls, fun attractions, affordable accommodations and a family friendly vibe Myrtle Beach continues to experience growth even during the economic downturn that has affected most of the rest of the country.

Home to the Myrtle Beach International Airport this sleepy little seaside resort has spread its wings and came into its own as a destination for travelers from around the world looking for friendly southern hospitality, an abundance of highly rated restaurants, shopping, attractions and 60 miles of beautiful shoreline.

Myrtle Beach Vacation Rentals and the Elliott family have witnessed the growth along the Grand Strand first hand. Starting with one small rental office in North Myrtle Beach in 1959 and expanding through the years to include multiple satellite offices and our newest office located in the heart of Myrtle Beach. Give us a call today and let us help you plan a memorable beach vacation.