The Shell Island Beach Resort in North Carolina burned down in 1926 after a series of mysterious fires. The resort was the first for Black people in the United States, and was a popular destination for African Americans in the 1920s.
What happened?
- The resort was a popular destination for Black people from across the country.
- The resort featured hotels, cottages, bath halls, concessions, and a dance pavilion.
- The resort opened in 1923 and burned down in 1926 after three summer seasons.
- The cause of the fire is unknown, but some say it was arson by resentful whites.
- The resort was never rebuilt.
What happened after the fire?
- The island remained undeveloped until 1965 when the inlet connecting the island to Wrightsville Beach closed.
- The Army Corps of Engineers filled in the inlet as part of a beach and berm restoration project.
- Houses began to be built on the island in 1968.
- A new Shell Island Resort was built, and the area has become more developed with condominiums, a hotel, and beach access points.
