While in the Grand Strand area, spend a few peaceful hours discovering the simple treasures that make Conway such a special place. A mere 12 miles from Myrtle Beach, Conway is a jewel of "Americana."
Conway is one of the oldest towns in South Carolina. Originally named Kingston, the town was created in 1734 as part of Royal Governor Robert Johnson's Township Scheme. It was laid out on a riverbluff in the center of what became Horry County.
Many area residents fought in the American Revolution and small engagements were fought near Kingston at Bear Bluff and at Black Lake. Francis Marion, who was known as the Swamp Fox, had an encampment near Kingston just across the Waccamaw River.
After the war, patriotic citizens wanted to discard the mane that honored Great Britain's King George II. The County's name was changed to Horry (pronounced O-Ree) in honor of General Peter Horry in 1801 and a courthouse was established in Kingston. Kingston's name was later changed to Conwayborough for General Robert Conway.
By the 1820's, Conwayborough was a bustling riverport. Naval stores with the production of tar, pitch, and turpentine were premium occupation for area residents. Planters who developed plantations both large and small owned much of the land along the Waccamaw. Among these were "Snow Hill," "Sonwood," "Keysfield," "Oregon," "Bells Bay," "The Ark," "Longwood," and a "Woodbourne" in Horry County. Throughout the rest of the county were small farms and plantations.
When South Carolina seceded from the Union, area residents rallied to the cause. Thomas W. Beaty and Benjamin E. Sessions of Conway signed the Ordinances of Secession in Charleston. Near the end of the war, Union Soldiers occupied the town for a time.
During the 1870's, the lumber and naval store industries continued to expand. Riverboats transported passengers and goods along the Waccamaw River between Conwayborough and Georgetown. The South Carolina General Assembly shortened the town's name to Conway in 1883. In 1887, the railroad reached Conway and in 1898 the town elected its first mayor.
Much of the present downtown was built in the early 1900's. About the same time, Conway residents built the first cottages at the present day Myrtle Beach and at first called their summer retreat "New Town."
Conway's past has been proudly preserved. The Historic Sites Trail map listed 39 historic sites, significant buildings, and distinctive homes. Seventeen of these sites are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Additionally, Conway has been recognized as a Tree City USA based on its extensive planting and protection of trees. At several locations on Sixth and Seventh Avenues, and on Elm Street, visitors discover that vehicular traffic yields the right of way to giant, moss laden oaks.
At the Horry County Museum, visitors learn how local inhabitants, dating back to prehistoric times, adapted to diverse environmental changes. Another exhibit featuring animals of the low country is very popular with visitors, especially children.
Conway eateries get rave reviews from residents and visitors alike. Restaurants, bistros, and cafes offer everything from homestyle dining to cuisine that satisfies the most adventurous palates.
Conway's updated river front features an 850-foot boardwalk that invites a leisurely stroll for a scenic view of the river's black water. For a narrated historic tour of the Waccamaw, the Kingston Lady Riverboat departs from the Conway Marina, located near the end of the Riverwalk. Canoes and pontoon boats are available for rent and offer the opportunity to slip into the Waccamaw's tributaries teaming with fish, birds, animals, and plant life.
The most scenic route to enter Conway is over the Main Street Bridge. The bridge has been restored to look as it did when it was first erected. The Conway Area Chamber of Commerce, 203 Main Street, will be the first building on the left and offers a friendly welcome, information, and copies of the Historical Trail Map. Other self-guided tours include a guide to Conway's famous live oak trees, a guide to the river and historic warehouse district, and a spring time blooming guide.
