As a geologist, I find the origin of place names fascinating. One such place is Myrtle Beach, a popular vacation destination located along the coast of South Carolina. Have you ever wondered why it’s called Myrtle Beach? Well, let me share with you the interesting story behind the name.
The Meaning Behind the Name
Myrtle Beach was officially incorporated in 1938 and became a city in 1957. But the name “Myrtle Beach” has a much longer history. Back in 1900, a contest was held to give the area an official name. Addie Burroughs, the widow of Franklin G. Burroughs, suggested the name Myrtle Beach. Her inspiration came from the wax myrtle bushes that grew abundantly in the region. And so, Myrtle Beach became Myrtle Beach.
Origin of the Name Myrtle
The name Myrtle is derived from “Myrtus,” an evergreen shrub known for its medicinal properties. For centuries, the myrtle plant has been used to treat respiratory ailments and soothe skin inflammation. Interestingly, Myrtle was also a popular choice as a girl’s name in the 1850s, adding a touch of old-world charm to the beach’s moniker.
The Nickname “Dirty Myrtle”
While Myrtle Beach has gained fame as a vacation destination, it also has acquired a less flattering nickname – “Dirty Myrtle.” Originally, the nickname referred to various aspects of beach life, from a type of drink to a mud run. However, over the years, it has come to symbolize concerns about the water quality along the beach. The numerous swimming advisories warning visitors about poor water quality have contributed to the development of this less desirable reputation.
Locals Call It the Grand Strand
Despite its association with the name Myrtle Beach, locals like to refer to the area as the Grand Strand. The name perfectly encapsulates the grandeur of the region, which stretches for 60 miles along the coastline. The Grand Strand consists of 14 unique communities, offering a diverse range of experiences from north to south and east to west.
FAQs about Myrtle Beach
1. Is Myrtle Beach a famous beach destination?
Yes, Myrtle Beach is a famous beach destination that attracts millions of visitors each year. Its warm weather, wide beaches, and a plethora of entertainment options make it a popular choice among travelers.
2. Why is Myrtle Beach considered affordable?
Myrtle Beach is relatively affordable compared to other beach communities due to its higher crime rate. The cost of living and housing prices are generally lower than the national average.
3. Does Myrtle Beach have a bad reputation?
Myrtle Beach, particularly the Ocean Boulevard area, has struggled with visible crime, leading to a reputation that may not accurately reflect the overall safety of the region.
4. Why is the water at Myrtle Beach often considered dirty?
Heavy rainfall can overwhelm the capacity of the land to absorb and clean the water. As a result, stormwater carries contaminants from yards, parking lots, and roads to the outfall pipes and eventually into the ocean, leading to concerns about water quality.
5. Is it safe to vacation in Myrtle Beach?
Yes, Myrtle Beach is still a safe place to visit. While precautions should always be taken, the area remains a popular beach destination with millions of visitors each year.
6. What does Myrtle mean in English?
In English, myrtle refers to a common evergreen shrub found in southern Europe. It has fragrant white or rosy flowers and black berries. The myrtle plant belongs to the family of shrubs or trees, including eucalyptus and guava.
7. What are some interesting facts about Myrtle Beach?
Some fast facts about Myrtle Beach include its name origin from wax myrtle trees, the stretch of coastline known as the Grand Strand, the high number of annual visitors, and its reputation as the Golf Capital of the World.
8. When is the best time to visit Myrtle Beach?
The best months to visit Myrtle Beach are typically June through August for warm and sunny beach days. If you prefer fewer crowds but still warm weather, September to October and April to May are also excellent times to visit.
In conclusion, Myrtle Beach owes its name to the abundance of wax myrtle bushes in the region. Despite its reputation as “Dirty Myrtle,” the beach remains a beloved vacation destination with a rich history and a range of attractions for visitors to enjoy.
I hope you found this article interesting and informative. Whether you’re a geology enthusiast or a beach lover, Myrtle Beach offers a unique blend of natural beauty and coastal charm that continues to captivate visitors from around the world.
