Myrtle Beach Colored School Museum

Myrtle Beach Colored School Museum: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Site Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The Myrtle Beach Colored School Museum & Education Center stands as a powerful testament to the resilience, determination, and achievements of the African American community during segregation in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Established in 1932, the original school provided essential education for Black children at a time when opportunities were severely restricted by law and custom. Today, the museum preserves this history, offering visitors a meaningful and immersive experience through reconstructed classrooms, curated exhibits, and personal narratives from former students and teachers. This comprehensive guide details visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, guided tours, nearby attractions, and practical tips to ensure your visit is both informative and impactful (City of Myrtle Beach; Atlas Obscura; Visit Myrtle Beach).

Historical Background

Origins and Establishment

The Myrtle Beach Colored School was constructed in 1932 through a collaborative effort by the local Black community and the Rosenwald Fund, which supported the creation of thousands of schools for African American children across the South. The modest, wood-framed building featured three classrooms and served grades one through eight, addressing the critical need for formal education for Black students in Myrtle Beach (City of Myrtle Beach).

Role During Segregation

Operating under the “separate but equal” doctrine, the school faced chronic underfunding, overcrowding, and a lack of resources. Black students frequently received hand-me-down textbooks and walked to school while white students rode district-provided buses to better-equipped institutions. Despite these challenges, the school became a cornerstone of the community, fostering pride and unity among students, teachers, and families (The Clio).

Transition and Closure

The Myrtle Beach Colored School continued its mission until 1953, when Carver Training School (later Carver High School) opened, offering expanded opportunities for Black students. The original building subsequently fell into disrepair, but former students and advocates rallied to preserve its legacy, resulting in its restoration and reopening as a museum and education center in 2006 (Atlas Obscura).

Restoration and Museum Development

Community-driven efforts, including support from the City of Myrtle Beach and alumni, enabled the careful relocation and restoration of the schoolhouse at 900 Dunbar Street. The museum now houses original furnishings, historical photographs, and artifacts, offering rich educational programs and serving as a hub for civil rights and African American heritage initiatives (SC Picture Project).

Historical Significance and Community Impact

As one of the few remaining early 20th-century African American schoolhouses in South Carolina, the museum provides a tangible link to the era of segregation and the ongoing struggle for educational equality. Its legacy endures through community events, educational outreach, and continued involvement from former students and their descendants.

Museum Layout and Exhibits

The Classroom

Step into a reconstructed classroom furnished with period-appropriate desks, chalkboards, and educational materials donated by alumni. This immersive space evokes the daily experience of Black children during segregation and highlights their determination to learn in the face of adversity (MomsofMyrtle).

African American History Gallery

The gallery features multimedia exhibits and curated displays on African American history, locally and nationally. Notable installations include the “Interwoven” multimedia piece by Will Williams and exhibits on Black scientists, inventors, and community leaders. The gallery also documents the violence and systemic barriers of the Jim Crow South, providing a balanced and honest portrayal of the period (Grand Strand Magazine).

Visitor Information

Location and Address

Myrtle Beach Colored School Museum & Education Center
900 Dunbar Street
Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
(Google Map)

Visiting Hours

Monday, Wednesday, Friday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
(Hours may vary on holidays and special event days; call ahead or check the official website for updates.)

Admission and Tickets

Admission: Free
Donations: Appreciated to support preservation and educational programs

Guided Tours and Educational Programs

Docent-guided tours are available during open hours and by appointment, often led by former students or community leaders.
Educational workshops and events are held throughout the year, especially during Black History Month and Juneteenth.

Accessibility

The museum is fully wheelchair accessible.
Visitors with special needs are encouraged to contact the museum in advance for accommodations.

Directions and Parking

Located near downtown Myrtle Beach, accessible by car and public transportation (Coast RTA bus routes).
Free parking is available on-site or nearby street parking. Spaces may be limited during events.

Visitor Amenities and Tips

Restrooms: Available on-site.
Gift Shop: Books, souvenirs, and educational materials related to African American history.
Seating Areas: Benches and shaded outdoor spaces for rest and reflection.
No on-site café, but nearby options are available in downtown Myrtle Beach.

Tips:

Plan ahead due to limited hours.
Engage with volunteer guides for deeper insight.
Ask about photography policies.
Sign the interactive mural outside to commemorate your visit.
Consider donating to support the museum’s mission.

Educational and Community Impact

The museum serves as a vibrant community hub, hosting educational programs, special events, and outreach initiatives focused on civil rights, equity, and African American contributions. Its preservation was spearheaded by alumni like Mary C. Canty, ensuring the site remains a beacon for remembrance and progress (Grand Strand Magazine).

Nearby Historical Sites and Attractions

Expand your understanding of African American heritage by visiting:

Charlie’s Place Historic Site: Former Chitlin’ Circuit supper club and motel (Visit Myrtle Beach).
Seaside Cemetery: Historic African American cemetery (Travel Pander).
Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor: Celebrating Gullah Geechee culture along the southeastern U.S. coast (Travel Pander).
Horry County Museum: Regional natural and cultural history (Horry County Museum).
L. W. Paul Living History Farm: Depicts rural life in Horry County (L. W. Paul Living History Farm).
The Rice Museum: Focuses on the history of rice cultivation (The Rice Museum).
Hopsewee Plantation: Historic plantation with educational tours (Hopsewee Plantation).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the museum’s visiting hours?
A: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM. Call ahead to confirm hours, as they may vary.

Q: How much is admission?
A: Admission is free. Donations are encouraged.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, docent-led tours are offered during open hours and by appointment.

Q: Is the museum accessible to visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, the facility is fully ADA-compliant.

Q: Where is the museum located?
A: 900 Dunbar Street, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577.

Q: Is parking available?
A: Free on-site and street parking is available.

Q: Can I bring children?
A: The museum is best suited for children aged six and older, but younger children are welcome with supervision.

Visuals and Interactive Media

High-quality images and a virtual tour are available on the museum’s official website and local tourism pages.
Interactive mural allows guests to leave their mark.
Map to Myrtle Beach Colored School Museum
Alt text for images: “Myrtle Beach Colored School Museum exterior,” “Reconstructed classroom,” “Interactive mural.”

Safety and Visitor Conduct

Emergency exits and first aid supplies are provided.
Staff are trained in basic safety protocols.
Please be respectful: maintain a quiet demeanor and follow posted guidelines, especially in areas dedicated to personal stories and remembrance.

Contact Information

Phone: (843) 918-4905 (Visit Myrtle Beach)
Email: Available via the Myrtle Beach city website
For group tours or special accommodations, contact in advance.

Stay Connected and Plan Your Visit

Stay up-to-date with special events, educational programming, and museum news through social media and the official website. Consider downloading the Audiala app for audio guides, curated local history content, and exclusive visitor tips.

For more resources and articles on Myrtle Beach historical sites and African American heritage, explore related posts on our platform.

Summary: Key Tips and Highlights

Visiting the Myrtle Beach Colored School Museum is more than a historical outing—it’s an immersive journey through the enduring legacy of African American education and community resilience. With its location at 900 Dunbar Street, free admission, interactive exhibits, and proximity to other heritage sites, the museum is a must-see for those seeking to understand the region’s history and support ongoing preservation efforts. Plan your visit, engage with local stories, and contribute to the ongoing celebration of African American heritage in Myrtle Beach (City of Myrtle Beach; The Clio; Visit Myrtle Beach).