07/20/2024
Driving south from Myrtle Beach, SC , nestled between Brookgreen Gardens and the Hammock Shops, lies an enchanting sight where Ocean Highway meets Old Beach Road. The remnants of a mid-century hotel, wrapped in nature's embrace, stand as a testament to history and perseverance.
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This abandoned structure, surrounded by a well-maintained fence, is the old McKenzie Beach motel. But why McKenzie Beach for a roadside motel? Dive into its remarkable history.
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In 1934, Myrtle Beach had already become a famous resort. Yet, due to segregation, it was off-limits to African Americans. Lillian Golden Pyatt, an ambitious Black woman, envisioned a beach club exclusively for them. The Magnolia Beach Club was born amidst challenges of the Great Depression and societal constraints.
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With the Lafayette Bridge construction and FDR’s infrastructure initiatives, America was on the move. For African Americans traveling between the 1930s and 1960s, the Green Book was their safe guide, listing friendly establishments and warning against dangerous areas.
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Considering the scarcity of oceanfront resorts for Black clientele, Lillian saw potential in a tract of land she inherited. She joined hands with Elizabeth “Miss Liz” McKenzie and her husband, after discovering they owned the adjacent property. Together, with investment from Dr. Ulysses Teel, they launched their venture.
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By 1936, construction was underway. The resort featured a hotel, dining area, pavilion, and cabins. Guests accessed the club via Old Beach Road, leading to a parking area. They would then cross a pedestrian bridge to reach the beachfront paradise.
The resort's highlight was a pavilion, which saw performances by legends like Ray Charles and Ella Fitzgerald. Lillian even invited superstars like Duke Ellington and Billie Holiday to perform.
However, tragedy struck in 1954 with Hurricane Hazel, devastating the club. The bridge was washed away, and rebuilding wasn't viable. Lillian’s beachfront dream turned into today’s Litchfield Beach's southern tip.
Later, the McKenzies constructed a family-friendly resort, naming it McKenzie Beach, on a four-acre tract. Although they lost their beach access, the view of the marsh remained. By 1963, financial struggles led to its sale to civil rights advocates, Walter M. Manigault and Modjeska M. Simkins.
Today, the Manigault family oversees the property, preserving its legacy. Both pioneers, Frank McKenzie and Lillian Pyatt, passed away in 1978. Thanks to the Manigaults, their vision of inclusivity and happiness remains an indelible part of history.
LEARN MORE about the area's real estate expert, Jake Lee at www.JakeLeeRealEstate.com/about or call him directly at 843-240-0431
