Calabash, North Carolina


NESTLED ON THE TIDAL plains in the southeast corner of North Carolina lies a small fishing village with a timeless legacy and a rich tradition. Situated between the bright lights of Myrtle Beach to the south and the historic charm of Wilmington to the north, Calabash remains a pleasant respite from the modern world. Known as the Seafood Capital of


the World, Calabash has become a prime destination for those seeking a more relaxed pace.


Legend has it that the town–and the Calabash River–are named for the Calabash gourd, which grew wild throughout the area. Nineteenth century slaves used the gourds as drinking vessels or bottles. By the end of the century, when peanut farming was an important part of the local economy, the area was known as Pea Landing. Peanuts, indigo, rice and other crops grown on nearby plan-


At A Glance Calabash, NC


Population:


Average Temp: Average Age:


772 74 F 58


Nearest Hospital: Brunswick Community Hospital


Nearest Major Airport: Myrtle Beach International Airport


Calabash Info: South Brunswick Chamber of Commerce


www.sbichamber.com (800) 426-6644


SUZY KING- CALABASH PHOTOGRAPHY www.MaryAnnBechtel.com • www.BrunswickCountyNeighborhoods.com • www.OceanRidgeLiving.com


tations arrived by wagon and were shipped to market in Wilmington. Seafood, prepared “Calabash-style,” was always a local staple but did not become a driving force until the 1930s.


The Great Depression did not


spare Calabash, and much of the lo- cal labor was forced out of the fields. Many turned to the sea in order to feed their families, and it wasn’t long before small shacks sprang up on the river banks, serving fresh seafood prepared in the local style. With fish- ermen selling their catch right on the dock, the seafood market flourished. While each of the more than


20 restaurants that prosper today serves its special version of Calabash seafood, the eating experience always starts with fish fresh from the boat, which is lightly battered and deep fried. Hush puppies are required. Great seafood at affordable prices remains the hallmark of Calabash,


enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. In 1940, a famous entertainer and his troupe stopped by Lucy Coleman’s restaurant. Before leaving, Jimmy Durante promised Lucy he would make her famous and, not long after, he began signing off his radio pro- gram with “Good night, Mrs. Cala- bash, wherever you are.” A true story? Calabash residents still think so. Today, this fishing village of just under 800 people retains its simple, Southern charm. In addition to its claim to fame as the center of the seafood universe, the Calabash area offers a wide range of recreational activities, from horseback riding to golf, and its proximity to the Cala- bash River and the Intracoastal Wa- terway makes it a paradise for boaters and fishermen.


And, in the afternoons–when the boats come in–Calabash lives up to its reputation as the Seafood Capital of the World.


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