Snap Judgment Podcast Summary

Title: Introducing Charlie’s Place: A Cultural Haven That Brought People Together Through Music
Host/Author: Snap Judgment and PRX
Release Date: July 22, 2025
Episode: Introducing Charlie’s Place: A Cultural Haven That Brought People Together Through Music

Introduction

In this evocative episode of Snap Judgment, host Reem Giese delves into the rich history of Charlie’s Place, an iconic music venue in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. The episode paints a vivid picture of a time when racial segregation was the norm, yet Charlie’s Place stood as a beacon of integration and community through the universal language of music. Through interviews with historians, local residents, and cultural experts, Giese uncovers the triumphs and tragedies that shaped this legendary establishment.

Setting the Scene: The Birth of Charlie’s Place

The story begins in the 1940s, a period marked by strict segregation laws in the American South. Amidst this turbulent backdrop, Charlie Fitzgerald emerges as a revolutionary figure who defied societal norms. As a historian recounts, “Charlie Fitzgerald was notorious. He was constantly having makeovers, seemingly always reinventing himself” (04:20). Known by many as a “traitor, turncoat, folk hero, defiant,” Charlie’s multifaceted persona challenged the oppressive racial barriers of the time.

Charlie Fitzgerald: The Enigmatic Founder

Charlie Fitzgerald, the mysterious black businessman behind Charlie’s Place, is portrayed as both beloved and controversial. A local historian compares his impact to significant historical events, stating, “What happened to Charlie Fitzgerald was almost, I guess it would be an Emmett Till moment. It would be a Pearl Harbor moment” (04:20). These profound disruptions highlight Charlie’s unique role in the community and the intense resistance he faced from segregationists, including members of the Ku Klux Klan.

Charlie’s Place: A Nexus of Music and Integration

Reem Giese transports listeners to a lively Saturday night in 1940 Myrtle Beach, where the air is filled with the sounds of Count Basie’s orchestra. Despite the prevailing Jim Crow laws, inside Charlie’s Place, black and white patrons danced together harmoniously. A local resident nostalgically recalls, “Segregation by day, integration at night” (07:16), emphasizing the club’s role in uniting a divided community through music.

Charlie's Place, originally known as Whispering Pines, attracted legendary musicians such as Little Richard, Ray Charles, Duke Ellington, and Lena Horne. Ms. Pat, a long-time resident, shares her memories: “Charlie Fitzgerald was a good man to the whole neighborhood, the town, everywhere. And you either respect him or you hate him” (11:39). These performances not only entertained but also served as a platform for cultural exchange and social change.

Life on the Hill: Community and Resilience

The Hill, centered around Carver Street, was the heart of black life in Myrtle Beach. Ms. Pat provides a personal glimpse into this vibrant community: “Carver street was the only street that we could sell anything, open up a business. We weren't allowed on Oak street at all back then” (12:17). Raised by her grandmother after the tragic loss of her mother and sisters, Ms. Pat recounts the resourcefulness and resilience required to survive under extreme segregation.

From scavenging for materials to maintain their homes to fostering a tight-knit community, the residents of the Hill exemplified perseverance. Ms. Pat reflects, “They worked at night to avoid the police” (13:53), underscoring the constant struggle against oppressive laws.

Personal Stories: Memories and Legends

Ms. Pat’s anecdotes bring the era to life, illustrating the duality of kindness and strictness embodied by the Fitzgeralds. She recalls how Charlie ensured that children were treated with care while maintaining order: “And he didn't allow children to be in grown people company” (20:59). The Fitzgeralds’ standards extended beyond the club, influencing how the community interacted and upheld respect.

Leroy Brunson adds depth to Charlie’s character, describing him as a man of preparedness and authority: “Charlie was an example of power. No one told him what to do, what he wanted to do. That's what he did” (33:53). These personal narratives highlight the complex dynamics within the community and Charlie’s pivotal role in maintaining harmony.

Challenges and Conflicts

Despite the club’s success, Charlie’s Place was not immune to conflict. Roddy Brown shares a harrowing experience of witnessing violence at the club: “In broad daylight in Charlie's club, Roddy saw a man get shot right in front of him” (23:05). This incident underscores the volatile environment and the constant threats posed by racial tensions.

Moreover, rumors and speculation about Charlie’s dealings often swirled, adding layers of mystery to his legacy. Giese notes, “Others would mention potential ties to organized crime, too. Charlie did spend time in New York, but that's about all I could verify” (29:53). These stories contribute to the enigmatic aura surrounding Charlie Fitzgerald.

The Legacy of Charlie’s Place

Charlie’s Place operated from 1937 to 1966, becoming a cornerstone of Myrtle Beach’s cultural landscape. Although the club no longer stands, its legacy endures through the memories of those who experienced its vibrant atmosphere. Ms. Pat nostalgically describes, “He would allow the children to come over there for Christmas. He'd give everybody a child who could walk, who could crawl, who could dance, who could do anything” (29:12), illustrating Charlie’s enduring impact on the community.

The Fitzgeralds also fostered a sense of belonging and support, ensuring that the youth received education and care: “Sarah made sure Ms. Pat got to school” (26:11). This commitment to the community’s well-being cemented Charlie’s Place as more than just a music venue—it was a sanctuary and a catalyst for social change.

Conclusion: A Lasting Impact

Reem Giese wraps up the episode by reflecting on the profound sense of belonging that Charlie’s Place instilled in its patrons. Through meticulous storytelling and heartfelt interviews, the episode captures how music and community intertwine to transcend racial barriers. Charlie’s Place remains a testament to the power of cultural havens in fostering unity and driving societal progress.

Listeners are encouraged to explore more about Charlie’s Place through various platforms, ensuring that the legacy of this extraordinary venue continues to inspire future generations.

Notable Quotes with Attribution and Timestamps:

• Historian: “Charlie Fitzgerald was notorious. He was constantly having makeovers, seemingly always reinventing himself...” (04:20)

• Local Resident: “Segregation by day, integration at night.” (07:16)

• Ms. Pat: “Charlie Fitzgerald was a good man to the whole neighborhood, the town, everywhere. And you either respect him or you hate him.” (11:39)

• Reem Giese: “Carver street was the only street that we could sell anything, open up a business. We weren't allowed on Oak street at all back then.” (12:17)

• Leroy Brunson: “Charlie was an example of power. No one told him what to do, what he wanted to do. That's what he did.” (33:53)

• Roddy Brown: “In broad daylight in Charlie's club, Roddy saw a man get shot right in front of him.” (23:05)

• Ms. Pat: “He would allow the children to come over there for Christmas. He'd give everybody a child who could walk, who could crawl, who could dance, who could do anything.” (29:12)

Final Thoughts

Snap Judgment masterfully intertwines historical context with personal narratives to present a comprehensive and engaging account of Charlie’s Place. Through Reem Giese’s insightful storytelling, listeners gain a deep appreciation for the cultural and social significance of this extraordinary venue that brought diverse communities together through the unifying power of music.