This Fascinating South Carolina Beach Resort Has Been Abandoned And Reclaimed By Nature For Decades Now
By AnneMarie|Published March 21, 2023
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AnneMarie
Author
South Carolina has been home for AnneMarie since 2001. Her favorite part of the state is Lake Jocassee. An App State alumna, it's always the mountains; the lake bonus makes it heavenly. When not writing about the state, she may be spending time with family, relaxing by the pool, or out somewhere enjoying nature.
The era of segregation was a sad and terrible time in history. It’s hard to imagine how people could think it’s okay to prevent people from entering businesses or enjoying public places because of the color of their skin. Magnolia Beach Club served as an escape and safe place for African Americans to enjoy the beach during this time. It has since become one of the most fascinating abandoned places in South Carolina being reclaimed by nature.
Located off of Highway 17 just before you reach Pawleys Island, the Magnolia Beach Resort was one of the only places of its kind on the east coast between Miami and New York City.
It became a really special place for many from the time it was first developed in the 1930s, including famous musicians who would stop in and perform at the restaurant and club, people the likes of Ray Charles, Charlie "Bird" Parker, and Duke Ellington.
Its original owners were Pawleys Island natives Frank McKenzie and Lillian Pyatt. The resort later became known as McKenzie Beach, as Mr. McKenzie had dissolved his partnership with Lillian Pyatt when he rebuilt the motel following the destruction from the hurricane.
The resort regained its popularity, but due to financial hardship, it was sold to new owners in the late '60s. They allowed him to continue operating it until he moved on to other interests.
Hurricane Hugo hit in 1989 and the motel was almost destroyed. Yet, its remnants do remain, perhaps to help us remember important lessons of the past and to help keep special memories alive for those who once enjoyed the resort.
And in fact, a childrens' book has been written by Johnny L. Ford, who spent quite a bit of time at this resort as a child. See more information about the book or purchase it on the Georgetown Rice Museum's website.
Have you explored this or any of the other abandoned places in South Carolina? Which is your favorite one and why? Share with us in the comments section below.
