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.
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.
www.cityofconway.com
Did
you know:
Conway
is home to Coastal
Carolina University & is the county seat of Horry County.
If
you are looking to buy or sell a home or condo in the Conway
area, please contact
me or search
the MLS!
Keri
Martin
Prudential
Burroughs & Chapin Realty, Inc.
7421 North Kings Highway
Myrtle Beach, SC 29572
Cell:
(843) 446-6313
Office: (843) 449-9444
Toll Free: (800) 277-7704
FAX: (843) 315-0261
E-mail:
keri@mbnative.com or
Keri.martin@pru-bc.com