Ah, Folly Beach. Its name may sound whimsical, but its history is a captivating blend of pirates, soldiers, and melodies. Folly Beach’s story is one of resilience and transformation.
Folly Island got its name from its dense foliage. “Folly” was the Old English term for an area choked with trees. The island’s history dates back to a land grant in 1696. King William III gave it to William Rivers.
For years, Folly Beach ownership changed hands. Few owners resided here. The Bohicket tribe called Folly Beach home. They stayed until more Europeans arrived in Charleston.
Folly Beach became a refuge for shipwreck survivors. In 1832, the Amelia wrecked off its coast. About 120 passengers made it to shore. Sadly, twenty of them died from cholera. Charleston officials feared an epidemic. They blocked access to the island and stopped supplies.
During the Civil War, Folly Beach transformed into a strategic military base. Federal troops occupied it starting in 1863. They built roads, forts, and a supply depot. Folly Island could house up to 13,000 soldiers and their equipment. The Federal army used Folly Beach as a key base for attacking Fort Sumter.
In 1987, a construction site revealed a haunting secret on Folly Beach. Workers unearthed 14 bodies. These were soldiers from the 55th Massachusetts Volunteer Regiment. The 54th Regiment was also stationed on Folly Beach. This regiment became famous in the movie “Glory”. Twelve of the bodies lacked skulls and other body parts. There were no battle injuries. The mystery of why these soldiers were buried this way remains unsolved.
After the Civil War, Folly Beach was nearly abandoned. But its potential as a beach retreat close to Charleston was soon realized. Folly Beach became a melting pot. Camps transformed into cottages.
The 1940s brought steady construction. The peak came in the 1960s with the Ocean Plaza. It had amusement rides, a boardwalk, shops, and a pier. The Folly Pier became a musical hotspot. Big bands like Glenn Miller and Maurice Williams played here.
Folly Beach drew famous visitors. Composer George Gershwin stayed here. He composed the opera “Porgy and Bess” during his time on Folly Beach.
While only nine families lived on the island year-round, the construction of attractions made it clear that Folly Beach was gaining popularity. The Atlantic Pavilion, pier, boardwalk, and Oceanfront Hotel were clear signs of this.
Hurricane Hugo struck in 1989. It devastated Folly Beach and neighboring areas. But the community rallied. They rebuilt quickly in true Folly spirit.
Folly Beach has also been known as Coffin Island. Some say this is because ships dropped off sick and dying passengers to avoid quarantine in Charleston harbor. Others believe it is due to shipwrecks.
Folly Beach is rumored to be haunted. Tales of pirates, war, shipwrecks, and disease contribute to its ghostly lore. The headless soldiers found on the beach add to the eerie atmosphere.
Today, Folly Beach is home to about 2,400 residents. Countless visitors enjoy its laid-back atmosphere. It offers great food, relaxing beaches, and unique charm. Folly Beach is truly unlike anywhere else in the world.