You probably already know that the Grand Strand is one the most popular vacation destinations on the East Coast, thanks to 60 miles of beautiful beaches, world-class golf, and some of the best shopping, dining, and attractions around. But you may be surprised to learn that this area is also rich in American history, dating all the way back to the days when South Carolina was one of the original 13 colonies. And there is no better place to learn about the history of your favorite vacation destination than by visiting the Horry County Museum.
Horry County is located in the northeast corner of South Carolina. It is the largest county in state, and includes North Myrtle Beach and Myrtle Beach, as well as surrounding areas. The county seat is located in the heart of downtown Conway — along with the Horry County Museum, which is housed in the historic Burroughs School building. Built in 1905, the building still has its original hardwood flooring, and serves an artifact itself! Admission to the museum is free to the public, but donations are accepted. Guided gallery tours are available every Wednesday at 2PM, excluding holidays.
Here are just a few of the exhibits:
The ‘Tanked’ Aquarium
When you first enter the building, you will find the ‘Tanked’ Aquarium. Beautifully designed and located in the center of the spiral staircase, it was featured on the Animal Planet show, Tanked. This living natural history exhibit holds 4400 gallons of water, and a variety of freshwater fish that are native to local rivers and lakes. Be sure to stay for a feeding, but don’t stand too close or you may get splashed!
Natural History
In addition to the aquarium, visitors will learn about the animals found along the Grand Strand, including the American Black Bear, American Alligator, and various birds of prey.
Military
Horry County was named for Revolutionary War Captain Peter Horry. There are multiple military exhibits to explore, including artifacts from the Revolutionary War and the Civil War.
Native Americans
The first residents of Horry County were here centuries before Europeans set foot in South Carolina. Learn more about their customs, tools, and daily life, including a Native American house constructed from local materials using the waddle and daub method.
Horry County Beaches
The Grand Strand beaches are in important part of the region’s history. From the Pavilion and other early attractions, to historic bathing suits and the start of the Shag, the Beach Gallery is sure to delight locals and vacationers alike.
Textiles
The Textiles exhibit changes throughout the year, and showcases garments, early sewing machines and washing machines, and a loom. The museum also holds an annual Quilt Gala each February, and places ribbon winning quilts on display.
There is much more to see, including a Photography Gallery, and much more to experience! In addition to the Horry County Museum, there is also the L.W. Paul Living History Farm that replicates what life was like on a “one horse family farm” in Horry County from 1900-1955. Visitors will have the opportunity to sample everyday farm life from this era, through demonstrations and free guided tours.
Contact Vacation Rentals of North Myrtle Beach today, and start planning a historic vacation the whole family will remember. But first, check out this featured property.
Myrtlewood Villas #201: This spacious, tastefully decorated 3 bedroom/2 bath condo in Myrtle Beach sleeps up to 8 and is close to everything. Off the beaten path in the MyrtleWood Community, located right off the 17 Bypass, the unit is tucked far enough away in peacefulness that you almost forget you are in the center of most major attractions! Just a few miles from the oceanfront, you can drive and park in one of the many beach accesses.
There is a queen bed in the master suite, a queen bed in the 2nd bedroom, and 2 twin beds in the 3rd bedroom. There’s also a fully equipped kitchen with a separate dining area, living room, and a balcony overlooking the pool with a retractable shade system. There is also a grilling area for your use.
The sea, the sun, and the Grand Strand! Vacation Rentals of North Myrtle Beach, LLC, is a premier, full-service, licensed property management company in North Myrtle Beach, SC. Whether you are booking a reservation for your vacation or entrusting us with the management of your property, our professionally trained staff will ensure that all the details of renting the property are handled in a pleasant, stress-free manner. Call us today at 888-488-8588!
Myrtle Beach Barefoot Resort, a division of Vacation Rentals of North Myrtle Beach, is just a hop skip and jump away from the beach and beautiful Barefoot Landing, and was built with golf in mind with four of the most amazing golf courses in the area. When planning your vacation getaway, Myrtle Beach Barefoot Resort will help you make the most of your visit to the Grand Strand. Call us today at 800-548-9904!