ATLANTIC BEACH, S.C. (WPDE) — The Atlantic Beach Historic District was placed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Town of Atlantic Beach announced this on Wednesday.

The Historic District includes the entire Town of Atlantic Beach, bordered nearby 29th and 32nd Avenues to the north and south, and South Ocean Boulevard and Wiley Avenue to the east and west.

This district recognizes 72 properties within the town that have retained their structure for over 50 years, contributing to the town's history.

The statement of the nomination's significance shared:

Atlantic Beach Historic District is eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places under Criterion A in the areas of Ethnic Heritage: Black and Entertainment/Recreation. The historical built environment, including residential, commercial, and recreational buildings, bears witness to the ingrained custom of segregation in South Carolina. More importantly, the environment was shaped by the successful efforts of Blacks to thrive, prosper, and enjoy themselves in an otherwise oppressive world. Established ninety years ago, in 1934, Atlantic Beach was one of the only oceanside recreational sites open to Blacks in South Carolina during Jim Crow segregation. Atlantic Beach was governed and owned by Blacks throughout the period of significance. Today, Atlantic Beach is the only remaining African American owned and government oceanfront municipality in the United States.
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the country's historic places that are worthy of preservation.

This nomination was received through collaboration between the Atlantic Beach Historic Committee, Horry County Historic Preservation Commission, Horry County Planning and Zoning and Chronicle Heritage.