By Jim Hulen – NorthMyrlteBeachONLINE.com

North Myrtle Beach September 24, 2007—During the first week of the SOS Fall Migration, representatives from the O.D. Pavilion Social and Shag Club, members of the Society of Stranders and North Myrtle Beach city officials gathered to dedicate a historical marker located on the ocean side of the intersection of Main and North Ocean Drive Boulevard.

The historical marker recognizes the continuous role open air pavilions and shag dancing has played in the culture of the City and its predecessor municipalities.

Since 1936, an open air pavilion has been located at this intersection.  The first was Robert’s Pavilion, destroyed during Hurricane Hazel in 1954 and replaced by the current O.D. Pavilion. 

The O.D. Pavilion was build on the same foundation and with salvaged timbers from Robert’s.

In her remarks, Mayor Marilyn Hatley said, “This is the first historical marker in the city of North Myrtle Beach.  I want to give credit to the OC Pavilion Social and Shag Club and Bill Drew who led the effort in the coordination with the SC Archives and History Commission to get the approval for this marker.”

Afterwards, Hatley commented, “The twelve thousand members of SOS and the three times a year events they hold are not only delightful and entertaining but an economic boost to the community.  A Coastal Carolina University impact study showed a $7 million dollar stimulus for each of the events.  We are very grateful to be the historical home of the shag and beach music.”