A motel in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, where black entertainers often stayed when performing in the area during the segregation era has been partially demolished, with plans to use some of the remaining property for a museum and space for small businesses.
A city spokesman said the south side of the Fitzgerald Motel on Carver Street was torn down a week ago, The Sun News of Myrtle Beach reported.
The Sun News of Myrtle Beach reported.
In its heyday, the historic motel was frequented by black entertainers who performed at nearby supper club and musical venue Charlie’s Place, including Little Richard, Marvin Gaye, Jackie Wilson, Etta James and Billie Holiday.
Herbert Riley Riley, head of the Carver Street Economic Renaissance Corp., told The Sun News that the main building on the property will be turned into a music museum to commemorate the high-profile acts that “came there, stayed there, played there and partied there.”