Conway's Historical Evolution and Economic Growth Highlighted
Conway, a town in Horry County, South Carolina, has a rich history dating back to its establishment as Kingston Village around 1735. Originally the seat of Kingston County, which was later renamed Horry County in honor of Revolutionary War hero Peter Horry, the town was renamed Conwayborough before being shortened to Conway in 1883. The town's economy has historically benefited from its status as a county seat, drawing jobs and trade through its courthouse. Post-World War II, the beaches of Horry County began attracting more visitors, contributing to a thriving sunbelt economy that provided diverse employment opportunities for residents. In the 1960s, Coastal Carolina College, initially a branch of the University of South Carolina, began significantly impacting the local economy. A new campus for what became Coastal Carolina University was established in suburban Conway, further cementing the town's role in the region's educational and economic landscape.