History of Beach Towns

While Rehoboth Beach was occupied by some native populations nearly 700 years ago, the land was poor and the modern city wasn’t founded until 1873 as the Rehoboth Beach Camp Meeting Association. It was envisioned by the Rev. Robert W. Todd as a site for Methodist camp meetings. Disbanded in 1881, the area was incorporated by the Delaware General Assembly as "Cape Henlopen City" in 1891 and two years later became Rehoboth Beach! Today Rehoboth Beach is home to a beautiful boardwalk - the first was constructed in 1873 - Dogfish Head Brewing Company, concerts, festivals, and one of the...

According to descriptions by early European explorers the area now known as Nags Head had very high sand dunes visible from miles at sea. The current name probably came from folklore about land pirates! The story goes that mules or horses (nags) would have lights hung on their heads by pirate-like gangs on land in order to trick ships into running aground and then loot the ships of their valuables. Jockey's Ridge is the last vestige of the dunes, and the area became a resort town around 1830. Today, Nags Head is known for hang gliding and kite flying near...

This barrier island located off of Savannah, Georgia is a gorgeous series of beaches and a small town. Tybee is a local Native American population’s word for “salt” and the name was changed in the 1950s to “Savannah Beach” for publicity. However, in the mid-1970s the island returned to using the original name of the island! Famous on the island is the Tybee Island Light Station, which, despite the actual light house being replaced several times, is one of the few remaining operational 18th century light stations in the United States. The Fort Screven historic district is home to restored military...

Stone Harbor, New Jersey! Together with its neighbor Avalon, Stone Harbor occupies Seven Mile Island. Unlike other beaches on the Atlantic Coast, Stone Harbor is a much younger beach! In the late 19th century it was developed as a beach town along local railroad lines. It was hoped that it would become a resort spot for wealthy residents of Philadelphia seeking a second home by the shore. Today it is home to nearly 1100 full-time residents. Stone Harbor attractions include The Wetlands Institute, the Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary, and the Stone Harbor Museum.The Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary,...

Charleston, South Carolina - the oldest and largest city in the state. "Charles Town" originated in 1670 - one of the oldest cities in the United States - and moved to its current location 10 years later. The current name of Charleston came much later. Now it is known not only as one of the friendliest cities in the country, but for a growing culinary scene and beautiful historic architecture. Charleston is a beach city with gorgeous barrier islands and surrounding areas that blend the beach life with urban excitement. Our poster features the palm tree and crescent moon that...