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 – were named for Calabash gourds, which grew wild throughout the area and were used as drinking vessels or bottles by 19th- century slaves. 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 plantations arrived
by wagon and were shipped to mar- ket in Wilmington. Seafood, pre- pared “Calabash-style,” was always a local staple but did not become a driving force until the 1930s. Te Great Depression did not
spare Calabash, and much of the lo- cal labor was forced out of the fields. Many turned to the sea 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 fishermen 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 leav- ing, Jimmy Durante promised Lucy he would make her famous and, not long after, he began signing off his radio program with “Good night, Mrs. Calabash, 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.
At A Glance Population:
Average Temp: Average Age
1,794 74 58
Nearest Hospital: J. Arthur Dosher Memorial Hospital
Nearest Major Airport: Myrtle Beach International Airport
SUZY KING- CALABASH PHOTOGRAPHY
Calabash Info: Brunswick County Chamber of Commerce
www.brunswickcountychamber.org (800) 426-6644
RetiringToNorthCarolina.com |
RetiringToBrunswickCounty.com |
BrunswickBuilders.com
www.RetiringToNorthCarolina.com
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