Lost Sanctuaries of the Lowcountry
Riverside Beach opened in 1930 as a primary destination for African American residents in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina. Located along 5th Avenue near the current Remley’s Point public boat landing, the site provided essential space for recreation during an era of rigid segregation. Residents recall the area as a self-sustaining hub, with some comparing its economic vitality to the Greenwood District in Tulsa, Oklahoma. It served as the first Black beach established east of the Cooper River.
White’s Paradise, a nightclub and hotel, opened nearby in 1943. It functioned as a central piece of this community. Johnny and Carrie Robinson, who have been married for 60 years, held their wedding reception at the venue. The club attracted major musical acts of the era, including B.B. King, Fats Domino, Duke Ellington, and James Brown. For many local families, the site represented more than just a dance hall; it was a rare sanctuary for leisure and social connection.
The Disappearance of a Community Hub
By the mid-1970s, the landscape of the area changed. Mount Pleasant leaders confirm the county sold the land occupied by Riverside Beach to private developers in 1975. This marked the end of the public beach access that had served the local Black community for decades. White’s Paradise faced a similar fate, as the structure was demolished in 1993. The physical remnants of this once-thriving center were replaced by development, leaving many residents to reflect on the loss of their heritage.
John Wright, who grew up near these landmarks, remembers the physical environment vividly. He recalls the cooling effect of the trees as one approached the water, a stark contrast to the development that eventually overtook the property. Residents express regret that they did not recognize the long-term value of the land when they had the chance to secure it. They point out that they lacked the resources or the guidance to prevent the eventual sale of the property.
Questions Over Historical Recognition
The town installed a double-sided historical marker to commemorate both sites, but long-term residents are speaking out against the placement. They claim the marker sits in the wrong location, failing to accurately represent where the beach and nightclub stood. For these residents, the error feels like a missed opportunity to honor the truth of their history. They emphasize that proper location is vital for future generations who seek to understand their roots.
Johnny Robinson notes that the history of these sites is crucial for children, adding that the importance of ownership and passing down a legacy to family remains a priority. The town of Mount Pleasant says its leadership was unaware of these specific concerns until recently. They have indicated a willingness to gather more information about the history and the context of the location. Officials plan to determine how the town can address these concerns and potentially provide a more accurate reflection of the site’s significance moving forward.