Myrtle Beach, September 23, 2025
News Summary
On September 21, 2025, Myrtle Beach celebrated Jack Thompson Day in honor of local legend Jack Thompson’s 89th birthday. Attendees gathered at the Train Depot to recognize his contributions to community photography and storytelling, culminating in him receiving the Order of the Palmetto. The event also marked the launch of his new book, highlighting his dedication to documenting the Grand Strand’s history.
Myrtle Beach Celebrates Jack Thompson Day with Heartfelt Honors
On September 21, 2025, the vibrant city of Myrtle Beach was alive with celebration as local legend Jack Thompson marked his 89th birthday. The day wasn’t just about revelry; it was officially designated as “Jack Thompson Day.” Friends, local leaders, and businesses joined together at the historic Myrtle Beach Train Depot to pay tribute to this revered figure in the Grand Strand community.
A Day of Recognition
The event was more than just a birthday bash; it also served as the backdrop for Thompson receiving the Order of the Palmetto, which is South Carolina’s highest civilian honor. This prestigious award acknowledged Thompson’s remarkable 75-year contribution to capturing the history of the Grand Strand through the lens of his camera, amassing an impressive collection of over 100,000 images that document the evolution of this beloved coastal area.
A Heartfelt Gathering
Surrounded by around 100 friends, local leaders, and merchants, Thompson was celebrated not just for his accolades, but also for the countless lives he has touched through his photography and storytelling. Many attendees took the opportunity to share heartwarming anecdotes about his early days in Myrtle Beach and the lasting impact he has had on the community over the decades.
Humble Beginnings
Thompson’s journey as a photographer is a testament to his passion for his craft. He started his career as a mere 13-year-old hitchhiker from Greenville in the 1950s. His first job was in a modest two-minute photo booth at the Myrtle Beach Pavilion, a humble beginning for someone destined for great things. It was here that he came under the mentorship of Dwight Lambe, who guided him in mastering larger cameras and ignited his journey into the world of professional photography.
A Life Dedicated to Photography
As time went on, Thompson opened his own photography studio and became a chronicler of community memories, documenting numerous families and events throughout Myrtle Beach. Alongside his photography, he published several local publications, including “Insight into the Grand Strand” and “The Grand Strand Golfer.” Each publication, a testament to his love and dedication to the area, showcases his deep understanding and appreciation for the community.
Preservation Efforts
Thompson’s commitment to Myrtle Beach went beyond just photography. His tireless efforts in preserving the Train Depot from demolition further cemented his status in the community. Standing firmly in front of a bulldozer, he advocated for its preservation, showcasing his love for local history and commitment to safeguarding it for future generations.
Recognition and Legacy
In 2012, his contributions were formally recognized by the S.C. House of Representatives, dubbing him the “official chronicler of South Carolina’s Grand Strand.” Today, though he primarily takes photographs upon special request, Thompson dedicates a significant amount of his time to organizing his extensive archives, ensuring that the rich history of Myrtle Beach remains accessible for years to come.
The Launch of a New Chapter
The celebration was also a momentous occasion for Thompson as it marked the public launch of his new book, “Jack Thompson’s Myrtle Beach Billboards.” This publication serves not just as a collection of his work but as an expansion of his lifelong dedication to documenting and preserving the tales of Myrtle Beach.
Community Celebration
As the event came to a close, local leaders praised him for his unwavering commitment to documenting Myrtle Beach’s history and his role as the unofficial historian of the area. Jack Thompson’s legacy is one of passion, perseverance, and heartfelt dedication to his community, making him a true treasure for all who call Myrtle Beach home.
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Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Myrtle Beach News
- Wikipedia: Myrtle Beach
- Horry News: Jack Thompson Day
- Google Search: Jack Thompson Myrtle Beach
- WBTW: Myrtle Beach Historian Honored
- Encyclopedia Britannica: South Carolina
- ABC News: Myrtle Beach Photographer Honor
- Google News: Jack Thompson
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
