Myrtle Beach is one of the most beloved coastal destinations in the United States, known for its stunning shoreline, vibrant boardwalk, and family-friendly attractions. But have you ever wondered how this popular city got its distinctive name?
The story behind “Myrtle Beach” is a fascinating blend of natural history, early settlers, and marketing ingenuity.
Understanding the origin of the name provides insight not only into the region’s environment but also into the cultural and economic development of the area. This article explores the history, the natural flora that inspired the name, and the evolution of the city from a quiet coastal area into a bustling beach resort.
The Natural Origins: The Wax Myrtle Plant
The name “Myrtle Beach” is largely derived from the wax myrtle, a shrub native to the southeastern United States. Wax myrtle (Morella cerifera) is an evergreen shrub or small tree that grows abundantly in coastal South Carolina.
This plant is characterized by aromatic leaves and clusters of small berries coated with wax. The wax was historically harvested by Native Americans and early settlers for candles and other purposes.
The wax myrtle’s resilience to coastal environments made it a common sight along the shorelines and inland areas surrounding the beach.
“The wax myrtle, with its fragrant leaves and waxy berries, was a defining feature of the coastal landscape. It was only natural that early settlers would associate the area with this distinctive plant.”
Early Settlement and Naming Attempts
The area now known as Myrtle Beach was originally inhabited by Indigenous peoples, including the Waccamaw and Winyah tribes. European settlers arrived in the late 1700s and early 1800s, drawn to the rich natural resources and coastal access.
Initially, the region did not have a formal name recognized by outsiders. Settlers referred to the land based on natural landmarks, such as the nearby rivers, marshes, and groves of wax myrtle.
However, the beach itself was relatively undeveloped, primarily serving as a fishing and hunting ground.
Early Names Considered
Before the name “Myrtle Beach” was officially adopted, several other names were in circulation. These included:
| Name | Origin | Reason for Consideration |
|---|---|---|
| New Town | Early settlers | Reflected the establishment of a new settlement near the coast |
| Atlantic City | Developers | Attempted to model the area after Atlantic City, NJ, but was rejected to avoid confusion |
| Springmaid Beach | Later development | Name of a resort established in the 1940s, not the entire area |
Despite these alternatives, none captured the natural charm and unique identity of the area quite like “Myrtle Beach.”
Marketing and the Rise of Myrtle Beach
The official adoption of the name “Myrtle Beach” came about in the early 20th century, coinciding with the development of the area as a tourist destination. In 1900, a man named Franklin Burroughs, a lumber magnate and entrepreneur, played a key role in promoting the beach for tourism.
Burroughs and his company, the Burroughs & Collins Company, owned large tracts of land in the region. They began advertising the area to attract visitors, emphasizing the natural beauty, warm climate, and recreational opportunities.
The name “Myrtle Beach” was chosen to evoke the lush coastal wax myrtle plants, conjuring images of a tranquil and inviting seaside escape.
“The name ‘Myrtle Beach’ was more than a label; it was a brand that promised beauty, nature, and relaxation. It helped distinguish the area from other coastal towns.”
The Evolution of Myrtle Beach: From Wilderness to Resort City
Following the naming, Myrtle Beach began to develop rapidly. The arrival of the railroad in 1900 made the area more accessible to visitors from inland South Carolina and neighboring states.
Hotels, amusement parks, and other attractions soon followed.
Through the decades, Myrtle Beach grew into a premier destination. The name “Myrtle Beach” became synonymous with a vibrant coastal city that offered something for everyone—families, retirees, and adventure seekers alike.
Timeline of Key Events Related to Myrtle Beach’s Naming and Development
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| Late 1700s | European settlers begin inhabiting the coastal area |
| 1900 | Railroad reaches the area; Burroughs & Collins promotes “Myrtle Beach” as a tourist destination |
| 1930s | First official Myrtle Beach town charter established |
| 1940s | Springmaid Beach resort founded, boosting tourism further |
| 1950s-70s | Rapid growth of hotels, golf courses, and attractions |
| Present | Myrtle Beach is a well-known resort city with millions of annual visitors |
Why the Wax Myrtle Was So Important
The wax myrtle plant holds cultural, ecological, and economic significance in the region, which explains its central role in the naming of Myrtle Beach.
- Cultural significance: Native American tribes used the wax from the berries for candles and waterproofing materials. Early settlers continued similar uses.
- Ecological role: The plant thrives in coastal environments, helping to stabilize sand dunes and prevent erosion, making it a natural protector of the beach landscape.
- Economic value: The wax extracted was historically a commodity before synthetic alternatives became widespread.
Because of these factors, the wax myrtle symbolized both the natural beauty and practical utility of the area. Naming the city after this resilient and valuable plant was both fitting and evocative.
Other Theories and Myths About the Name
While the wax myrtle origin is the most widely accepted explanation, some alternative theories and myths have circulated over the years.
One popular but unsubstantiated myth suggests that a woman named Myrtle, a local figure in the early days of settlement, inspired the name. However, no historical records support this claim, and it is generally considered folklore.
Another theory posits that the name was chosen purely for marketing appeal, with no direct link to the plant itself. While marketing was certainly a factor, the abundance of wax myrtle plants in the region supports the botanical origin.
Reflection: The Power of a Name
The name “Myrtle Beach” underscores how place names can emerge from a combination of natural surroundings, cultural history, and economic development. It reflects the intimate relationship between people and the land they inhabit.
By choosing a name tied to the native wax myrtle, early developers helped root the identity of the city in its environment. This connection continues to resonate with residents and visitors who appreciate Myrtle Beach not only for its entertainment options but also for its natural charm.
“A name is more than just a word — it is a story, a symbol, and a legacy.”
Conclusion
Myrtle Beach got its name from the wax myrtle shrub, a plant native to the South Carolina coast that was both abundant and useful to early inhabitants. The name was popularized in the early 20th century to promote the area as a tourist destination and has since become synonymous with one of America’s most iconic beach towns.
Understanding the origin of the name enriches the experience of visiting or living in Myrtle Beach by highlighting the deep-rooted connections between the city’s natural environment and its cultural heritage.
Whether you stroll along the Grand Strand, enjoy the lively boardwalk, or explore the nearby marshes where wax myrtles still grow, the name “Myrtle Beach” serves as a living reminder of the past and a beacon guiding the future.
