Deep Cover - Episode: Introducing Charlie’s Place: Who Was Charlie Fitzgerald?

Release Date: July 21, 2025
Host: Reem Gise
Production: Atlas Obscura and Rococo Punch in partnership with Pushkin Industries
Presented by: Visit Myrtle Beach

Introduction

In the premiere episode of "Charlie’s Place," a new installment under the "Deep Cover" banner, host Reem Gise delves into the enigmatic history of a legendary music venue that defied segregation in the Jim Crow South. This episode unravels the story of Charlie Fitzgerald, the man behind Charlie’s Place, a nightclub in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, which became a beacon of integration and musical excellence during a time of pervasive racial tensions.

The Legend of Charlie’s Place

Reem Gise sets the stage by describing Charlie’s Place as more than just a nightclub. It was a sanctuary where black musicians could perform, and black and white patrons could dance together, challenging the oppressive segregation laws of the 1950s and 1960s. This defiance did not go unnoticed, drawing the ire of the Ku Klux Klan (KKK), culminating in a violent attack that resulted in Charlie Fitzgerald's kidnapping and the eventual closure of the club.

“Charlie’s Place was a safe haven where black musicians played and black and white patrons danced together. It broke the rules of the Jim Crow south and drew the attention of the Klan.”
— Pushkin Narrator (00:10)

Reem Gise’s Quest for Truth

Reem Gise arrives in Myrtle Beach with the mission to uncover the truth about Charlie Fitzgerald and the intertwined lives affected by his actions. She interviews long-time residents, including Ms. Pat, who provide personal anecdotes and fragmented memories that piece together the elusive character of Charlie Fitzgerald.

Personal Memories and Community Impact

Ms. Pat, a pivotal interviewee, shares her childhood experiences and the influence of Charlie and his wife, Sarah, on the local community. Growing up on Carver Street, the heart of black life in Myrtle Beach, Ms. Pat paints a vivid picture of resilience and resourcefulness amidst segregation.

“Charlie Fitzgerald was a good man to the whole neighborhood, the town, everywhere. And you either respect him or you hate him.”
— Ms. Pat (10:00)

Ms. Pat recounts how the Fitzgeralds ran various businesses, including a motel and a supper club, fostering a sense of community and generosity. Despite Charlie’s mysterious persona and rumored ties to organized crime, his and Sarah’s contributions to the community were undeniable.

Charlie and Sarah Fitzgerald: The Heart and Soul

The episode delves into the personalities of Charlie and Sarah Fitzgerald. Charlie is portrayed as a charismatic yet elusive figure, often reinventing himself and maintaining an air of mystery. His reputation was a mix of respect and fear, balancing his roles as a community leader and a man prepared for confrontation.

“Charlie was an example of power. No one told him what to do, what he wanted to do. That's what he did.”
— Unnamed Interviewee 4 (32:14)

Sarah Fitzgerald, on the other hand, is depicted as both nurturing and strict. Her strictness was evident in her dedication to ensuring the children in the community received an education despite systemic barriers. However, anecdotes like her interactions with a guard monkey at the kiddie pool reveal a more complex and sometimes harsh side.

“She had a temper. She didn't care for kids.”
— Unnamed Interviewee 4 (25:50)

The Music and Cultural Significance

Charlie’s Place was renowned for its exceptional music, attracting legendary artists such as Billie Holiday, Count Basie, Ruth Brown, and Marvin Gaye. The venue was a crucial stop on the Chitlin' Circuit, providing black entertainers with safe and supportive environments to perform.

“The last concert that I attended here with Otis Redding, we were having such a good time that the floor was really caving in. It was crowded.”
— Ms. Pat (18:07)

These performances not only entertained but also empowered the community, fostering a shared cultural identity that transcended racial divides.

Violence and the KKK's Intervention

The episode builds up to the pivotal moment when the KKK targeted Charlie’s Place. Over 400 bullets were fired at the venue, resulting in the kidnapping of Charlie Fitzgerald. This act of violence was intended to send a chilling message to other establishments that dared to defy segregation laws.

“What happened to Charlie Fitzgerald was almost, I guess it would be an Emmett Till moment. It would be a Pearl Harbor moment.”
— Unnamed Interviewee 1 (03:52)

This event marked the tragic end of Charlie’s Place and underscored the perilous climate for those who sought to challenge systemic racism.

Lost Legacy and Unanswered Questions

Reem Gise highlights the mystery surrounding Charlie Fitzgerald’s legacy. Despite his significant impact, very few photographs or concrete records of Charlie exist, complicating the narrative of his life and contributions.

“For such an important figure, someone larger than life, who shaped the attitudes and culture in Myrtle Beach and beyond, this is bizarre and honestly, kind of shocking. Charlie is someone everyone knew. How does that knowledge get lost?”
— Reem Gise (28:29)

The absence of extensive documentation raises questions about how history remembers influential figures, especially those who operated outside formal structures.

Community Resilience and Continuing Legacy

Despite the violence and loss, the community of Myrtle Beach remembers Charlie and Sarah Fitzgerald with a mix of reverence and complexity. Their efforts in fostering a safe and vibrant cultural space left an indelible mark on the town’s history and the lives of its residents.

“He'd give everybody, a child a gift.”
— Ms. Pat (27:33)

The episode concludes by emphasizing the enduring spirit of the community and the pivotal role Charlie’s Place played in shaping a more inclusive and resilient Myrtle Beach.

Conclusion

"Introducing Charlie’s Place: Who Was Charlie Fitzgerald?" offers a compelling exploration of a pivotal moment in American history through the lens of a single, enigmatic individual and his efforts to create a space of integration and cultural celebration. Reem Gise's investigative narrative weaves together personal memories, historical context, and the enduring mystery of Charlie Fitzgerald, providing listeners with a rich and engaging account of defiance, community, and the complexities of legacy.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Pushkin Narrator:
  “Charlie’s Place was a safe haven where black musicians played and black and white patrons danced together. It broke the rules of the Jim Crow south and drew the attention of the Klan.”
  (00:10)

• Ms. Pat:
  “Charlie Fitzgerald was a good man to the whole neighborhood, the town, everywhere. And you either respect him or you hate him.”
  (10:00)

• Unnamed Interviewee 4:
  “Charlie was an example of power. No one told him what to do, what he wanted to do. That's what he did.”
  (32:14)

• Unnamed Interviewee 1:
  “What happened to Charlie Fitzgerald was almost, I guess it would be an Emmett Till moment. It would be a Pearl Harbor moment.”
  (03:52)

• Ms. Pat:
  “He'd give everybody, a child a gift.”
  (27:33)

For those intrigued by the untold stories of historical figures who led double lives or influenced their communities in profound ways, this episode of "Deep Cover" offers an immersive and thought-provoking experience. To dive deeper into the full story of Charlie’s Place, subscribe to Pushkin+ for early and ad-free access, and explore more episodes wherever you get your podcasts.