Gorgeous jewelry for mom….from the Southern Gates Collection. Cuff and bangle bracelets from the collection are also available!
Whitmire Fine Jewelry also offers Pawleys Island Sand Beads. They are made in the USA, fit the Pandora and similar bracelets… or chains, ribbons, necklaces, etc. They are sterling and glass and are beautiful reminders of a visit or home. Stop by and see John Henry today!
Whether you rely on that hidden supply of toys for rainy days, or you’re looking for a unique birthday present, there are some great new items available…just in time for summer!
For example, the Freestyle Spooner is a must have! It is fast-paced action and easy to use. It is amazingly versatile for free play and for mastering complex tricks. The Spooner also makes it easy to learn skateboarding, surfing, and snowboarding techniques all year round! It helps improve core strength and stability, leg strength, balance, coordination and gross-motor skills.
Stand, sit rock, spin, slide, tilt, flip, wobble – you’ve got all the action you can handle with Spooner! Virtually indestructible and a cinch to maneuver.
And how about a ball that bounces on water? The Waboba Extreme Ball plays life to the extreme! The Waboba Extreme is the most versatile of all the Waboba balls. It is perfect for all open water play at the beach, lake, or even the local city fountain. Its ability to bounce high and fast makes it a fun and challenging water sport to be enjoyed by everyone. With its extreme wow factor, you’ll get attention everywhere you take your Waboba ball.
Both of these must-have summer toys are available at The Toy Isle in Pawleys Island. Like them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thetoyisle or call 843- 235-9078 for more information.
By Kimberly Duncan
Just as every family has secrets, so does every community. Despite a rich heritage of history, beauty and culture, the port of Georgetown is no exception. Many natives know the story, though few talk about it without persuasion. “Enough’s been said,” says one. “Let it rest,” snaps another. But usually – once he or she realizes the “story is out” – a knowing smile and a good natured chuckle is followed by a tale or two.
From the Kaminski House Museum on Front Street to Brookgreen Gardens’ grand entrance, Georgetown County is blessed with famous landmarks. Barely one mile south of the port city, however, stands remnants of what was once the city’s – indeed, the State’s – most infamous landmarks. Its name was Sunset Lodge.
Euphemistically speaking, Sunset Lodge was well-known as a “house of ill repute.” In and of itself, this fact is not so astounding. Prostitution is, after all, said to be the world’s oldest profession. The astounding detail of the story is that Sunset Lodge flourished, despite Deep Southconservatism, from the early 1930s to 1969. For nearly four decades, the rural bordello “operated under a blanket of protection that began with Georgetown county law enforcement officers and continued to the state house in Columbia,” according to a Christmas Eve, 1969 article in the Charleston Evening Post. “Sun Sets on Sunset Lodge,” read the headline. And the article went on to describe the establishment as “perhaps the most widely known site in SC, with the exception ofFortSumter.”
Sunset Lodge, a quiet looking Dutch Colonial building, was built in the late 1920s when Highway 17 was being paved. It opened without fanfare and attracted little attention from passersby. According to an article published in the Coastal Observer onMarch 19, 1992, it is said the construction of the paper mill flooded the town with rowdy laborers from big northern cities … laborers accustomed to easy access to cathouses. “No woman was safe in the streets, the story goes, so the powers that be decided to recruit a good madam. [Tom] Yawkey said he knew just the one.” It is speculated that Yawkey, a local resident and the owner of the Boston Red Sox, convinced “Miss Hazel,” to relocate fromFlorence where she was already operating a high class whorehouse.
World War II represented a particularly golden era of prosperity. Taxi drivers ran shuttle services fromCharleston, and untold numbers of soldiers and sailors left the Lowcountry to share the story of Sunset Lodge. Local men said they could be anywhere in the world and if they mentioned where they were from, someone would yell, “Sunset Lodge!”
After the War, Sunset Lodge evolved into a playhouse for the upper crust. The Lodge had a reputation for cleanliness, and “Miss Hazel’s girls” were hand-picked for being cultured and beautiful. Medical doctors were paid by retainer, and “the hostesses” were checked once each week – after which they displayed their “certificates of health” under glass on their bedside tables. It is not surprising then that most customers were doctors, lawyers, politicians and millionaire sportsmen. According to Sun Sets on Sunset Lodge, one nationally circulated magazine held a meeting of contributing writers at Myrtle Beach and, as a part of the program, retained the Sunset Lodge for an entire night. Boaters touring the Intracoastal Waterway knew it well and yachts often tied up at Georgetown simply because of the proximity of Sunset Lodge. Aviators often flew into Georgetown Airport … for a visit. And, albeit quietly, Sunset Lodge thrived.
The unspoken consent of local officials and residents ended in the final month of 1969 when Sheriff Woodrow Carter closed the bordello. Some speculate he did so to stave off political criticism in an upcoming election. Others contend Madam Weisse actually asked him to lock the doors as she was getting too old to manage the establishment. The media reported the Lodge was closed after receiving complaints from residents throughout the state. Whatever the reason, the closure brought an end to one of the most colorful chapters in Georgetown County history.
Following is the editorial that ran in The Georgetown Times on December 18, 1969. One cannot help but notice a shade of sadness in the clipping.
Sunset Lodge, a unique Georgetown county institution of international renown, was closed Friday as one phase of a state crack-down on illicit activities.
The 36-year-old brothel closed its doors on order of the Sheriff’s Office. No charges were filed. Notice was served; Sunset hostesses packed their bags and left.
Sheriff Woodrow Carter said it was closed “indefinitely.
Sunset was a paradox of society. It was tolerated or ignored by most. In a seaport community, it was above board and self-disciplined. It was the source of frequent contributions to many civic causes.
It existed despite the blue laws of government. The transition from a straight-laced to a permissive society ironically brought its downfall.
Rampant back-street vice in other South Carolina cities and demands for uniform enforcement of law placed a spot light locally.
In a twist of fate, Sunset was eclipsed in the back-lash of a libertine age.
Subsequent editorial clippings from a variety of local and regional papers confirm not all local citizens were pleased about the demise of their “one big tourist attraction.” One resident, the owner of a toy store, claimed he had to close his doors when the Sunset girls moved away. Another prominent businessman claimed the Lodge was instrumental in bringing industry to the area. “It was the added attraction which tipped the scale in our favor,” he said.
After its closing, Sunset Lodge was purchased by a local couple who made the infamous house their home. Madam Weisse lived with them until her death in July of 1974. Of her, they had only good things to say: “she was a precious lady … like a grandmother to my children.” They also reported that “for years and years, we’d have ten cars a day … asking for Sunset.” Following the Vietnam War, whole busloads of eager soldiers sometimes showed up direct from the plane in Charleston.
The Lodge burned in October of 1993. With the exception of a few outbuildings, little physical evidence remains today. Regardless, even if only in memory and old clippings, Sunset Lodge lives on.
©Kimberly Duncan
Of course we are talking about the 17th annual “Blessing of the Inlet” celebration! As always, it is held the First Saturday of May, and this year is no exception!! Belin Memorial United Methodist Church is so excited to be hosting this event. Saturday, May 4th, 2013 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. With over 60 arts and crafts vendors showcasing their wonderful handmade goods a virtual treasure trove awaits you. Whether it is the beautiful paintings or handmade jewelry, there is something for everyone! Don’t forget about all the delicious food prepared by some of Murrells Inlet’s finest restaurants! Also, to tempt you, we have our incredible children’s events, which include face and hair painting, numerous inflatable’s, climbing wall, and the ever popular “Dunking Tank” where they can take turns trying to “dunk” your friends.
There will also be a full day of outstanding entertainment featuring dance troops, gospel choirs, contemporary Christian musicians, and more. This festival is highlighted by the “Blessing of the Inlet” Ceremony which starts at 11:30a.m. The blessing will be administered by the Reverend Dr. Mike Alexander and the Reverend Marty Nason. There is no admission or parking charge and the event will be held rain or shine. So come help us celebrate the Glory of God and all He has “blessed” us with! We are NOT associated with The Blessing of the Fleet. Due to Belin’s focus on the people and lives of Murrells Inlet and the surrounding South Strand, the “Blessing of the Inlet” does not include the blessing of animals. “See Ya’ Saturday” has developed into the “Blessings” official slogan. All of the Grand Strand and the surrounding areas will be saying very soon… “See Ya’ Saturday!!!” Visit www.blessingoftheinlet.com for more information.
By Lee Brockington
The enchanting little church featured on the front cover of the April issue of Lowcountry Companion Magazine is perched, quite literally, on the edge of the marsh in the heart of Pawleys Island. The sanctuary opened for services in 1947, but the building itself is much older. It originally served as an old Pentecostal Holiness Church in Georgetown but –– through the efforts of the Georgetown Laymen’s Evangelistic Club –– was dismantled and moved to the Island. Overlooking marsh and creek, the land where the church sits was donated by Dr. and Mrs. J.H. Porter of Andrews, SC.
Because so many area folks owned beach houses and “summered” in Pawleys, the idea of a summer chapel was most appealing. Mr. J.M. Layton of Georgetown was an original member of the Evangelistic Club, and for years he cared for the chapel and opened the doors each Sunday. Other summer residents took an active interest in repairs and in organizing the services. In 1970, the Linwood Altman family assumed these tasks.
Local ministers, laymen, and retired ministers alternate preaching duties, and special music is performed each Sunday between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Interdenominational services are at 10 AM and are often standing room only.
Between 1947 and 1969 Sunday School classes for children and young people were also held. From 1970 to 1980, student ministers from Georgetown’s Duncan Memorial United Methodist Church conducted services during the summer. From 1971 to 1985, the newly organized Catholic Church (Precious Blood of Christ) used the chapel each Sunday for Mass. The Catholic church then moved to its larger site now on Waverly Road.
The charming, creekside chapel is often used for weddings and christenings. An average of 25 to thirty such services are held each year.
When the island first discussed incorporation in the early 1980s, it was here the arguments – both pro and con — were heard. The Town of Pawleys Island was incorporated in 1985, and mayor and council members were elected in the chapel, which was used as a polling place. The building miraculously survived Hurricane Hazel (1954) and Hurricane Hugo (1989), although it suffered damage in both storms.
The pulpit was given by Dr. and Mrs. Julian Kelly in memory of guests at their Tip Top Inn, which opened in 1932 and was destroyed by Hugo in 1989. The pulpit Bible was given by Mrs. Stan Brading of Sumter on July 4, 1965. The pulpit chair was given by the family of Wade O. Camlin III. The pulpit table was given in memory of Robert Stanton Hucks, Amelia Fox Stanton, and William Stanton by their family. Except for the Bible, these memorials replaced what was lost in Hurricane Hugo. The pews survived the saltwater surge, as did the portrait of Jesus.
Within seven months of the “Storm of the Century,” Pawleys Island Chapel was restored to use in the service of the Lord. Renovations in 1990 and 2005 allow 200 worshippers to experience a lack of pretense and a sense of kinship in a shared piece of paradise.
Lee G. Brockington is a historian and educator on the Waccamaw Neck. She is Senior Interpreter at Hobcaw Barony. She is editor of Pawleys Island, Stories from the Porch, a collection of oral history interviews, as well as author of Plantation Between the Waters, A Brief History of Hobcaw Barony and Pawleys Island, A Century of History and Photographs. Her newest book, State of The Heart – edited by Aida Rogers with a foreword by Pat Conroy – is scheduled for release in May of 2013. Lee and her husband, Bill Shehan, were actually married in the Chapel in 1990. Theirs was the first wedding ceremony following Hurricane Hugo!
Pawleys Island, A Century of History and Photographs provided the source material for this article. The book was compiled and written by Linwood Altman – father of Alan Altman – and Lee G. Brockington. (Joggling Board Press/Evening Post Publications, 2009)
The 278-page hard back pictography begins with an introduction by two of Pawleys famous vacationers; Cokie and Steve Roberts. They detail their love for the sandy, four-mile island and what it has come to mean to them as individuals and as a family.
Each chapter represents a decade. When you begin the story of Pawleys’ last century at page one, you glimpse a time when there were no Georgetown bridges, no causeways onto the Island and no Highway 17 (at least not as we know it now). By the end of the first chapter, everything changes.
“I believe this book reflects all the change between Pawleys Island and Georgetown over the past century” said Mr. Linwood Altman of the Civic Association’s latest work. “This coffee table time capsule is the culmination of three years of hard work, photo hunting, editing, delays, more delays, and waiting but it was well worth it.”
Other books published by the Pawleys Island Civic Association include Pawleys Island Stories from the Porch and Pawleys Island, Historically Speaking.
John WITZEL Walters
Witzel Art
Witzel is a self-taught artist who enjoys evoking emotion while working with acrylic paint on repurposed materials in Georgetown, South Carolina. Previously working as a diver in the Caribbean and being a proud native of the beautifully landscaped state of South Carolina, Witzel is inspired by the beauty of the lowcountry - land, marsh and sea. The textures, vibrant colors, and shapes reflected in his whimsical art are inspired from his love of nature, all while reflecting the shabby chic essence of the beach. He is known for his signature wet, glossy, glassy finish which diffuses light, allowing the eye to see more color and bringing the marine art to life.
Creative all his life, Witzel just recently started selling his art to the public in 2010. Since then, his career as an artist has grown rapidly and you can see his art in galleries and restaurants along the coast of South Carolina. In 2012, he won first place in the Florence Art International Competition, and was also chosen as the featured artist of the 2012 Pawleys Island Festival of Music and Art. Witzel makes it a priority to hold a yearly auction and charity art function in honor of his favorite local charity that provides a home for troubled and abused young boys. Witzel is passionate about supporting the youth and the arts, and volunteers at the local schools teaching art classes in his free time.
You may contact John at 843-229-1787 or johnwalters123@live.com. His art is on display at Prince George Framing and Gallery at 805 Front Street.
In April, National Garden Month, Tripadvisor compiled its list of the Top Ten Public Gardens in the United States based on traveler’s reviews and opinions and Brookgreen Gardens was named as one of their choices. The list features gardens from coast to coast, so nature lovers across the country can enjoy an amazing botanical experience.
“We were delighted to be recognized by TripAdvisor as one of the top public gardens in the country,” said Bob Jewell, Brookgreen Gardens President and CEO. “It is indicative of the garden’s long-standing commitment to excellence, in all that it does. For 83 years, Brookgreen Gardens has been an inspiration, refuge and retreat for our community. We hope residents and visitors will take pride in the fact that in their midst is one of America’s premier gardens and we pledge to keep it ever changing, simply amazing.’
TripAdvisor® is the world’s largest travel site*, enabling travelers to plan and have the perfect trip with trusted advice from real travelers. TripAdvisor branded sites make up the largest travel community in the world, with more than 200 million unique monthly visitors, and over 100 million reviews and opinions. The sites operate in 30 countries worldwide.
Brookgreen Gardens, a non-profit organization located on U.S. 17 between Myrtle Beach and Pawleys Island, South Carolina, is open daily to the public. For more information, visit www.brookgreen.org <http://www.brookgreen.org/> or call 843-235-6000.
Since 1998 Pawleys locals and visitors alike have gathered to relive the memories of Pawleys Pavilion in South Carolina! Dance (shag) under the stars to beach music by the best beach music bands! Huge dance floor, shuttle service, local food vendors, advance tickets available from Habitat for Humanity, this year’s Sponser!
This year’s event will take place May 11th, 2013 at the Pawleys Nature Park at the North Causeway and will begin at 6:30 PM. Get your tickets today!
Camp Brookgreen 2013 will host one-week sessions of summer fun and educational enrichment that will include activities atBrookgreenGardensandHuntington BeachState Park. Some of the activities include storytelling, arts and crafts, native plant and animal interactive programs, and a boat ride along freshwater creeks and rivers. Two two-day arts camps also will be available.
Registration, at 843-235-6049, begins March 11 for Members and March 18 for Non-members. Please visit www.brookgreen.org and click on the Calendar of Events for more information. Camp hours are 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., Monday through Friday, and the cost per child is $160.00/Members and $185/Non-members. Dates for rising 2nd & 3rd graders are June 10-14, 17-21, and 24-28; for rising 4th & 5th graders are July 8-12 and 15-19.
Registration for Arts Camps is $95/Members and $115/Non-members. Arts Camp with Diane Turnley (Rising 6th & 7th graders ) is July 1 and 2, and with Jerry Bethea (Rising 8th – 12th graders) is July 22-23. Arts Camp hours are from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
BrookgreenGardens, a National Historic Landmark and non-profit organization, is located on U.S. 17 between Myrtle Beachand Pawleys Island, South Carolina, and is open to the public daily. For more information, consult our web site at www.brookgreen.org or call 843-235-6000
Kimberly Duncan, Lowcountry Companion
If you’re seeking a Lowcountry-inspired resource for gifts and personal indulgences, make an unexpected stop at the Hobcaw Barony Discovery Center’s Gift Shop on Highway 17 one mile north of Georgetown.
Recently renovated, The Discovery Center includes an expanded gift shop stocked with inventory that appeals to all tastes and every age. Check out a fabulous book selection, which includes volumes about Hobcaw’s history, folklore, and ecology, other geographically-based books and fun children’s books. Cute stuffed animals and puppets make a nod to the Lowcountry. And there’s one-of-a-kind handmade jewelry, pottery, stained glass, picture frames, and candles, as well as Betsy Brabson-designed North Inlet and Hobcaw sea turtle t-shirts. The gorgeous batik prints of Hobcaw Barony by renowned batik artist, Mary Edna Fraser, are a particular favorite.
There’s far too much to detail here; rest assured you’ll be delightfully surprised, so please stop by the Center and spend time browsing. The Shop is open Monday – Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM. Ask questions at 843.546.4623 or surf over to www.HobcawBarony.org for lots of extra information.