Folly Beach to unveil historical marker at Porgy House

The City of Folly Beach, the Folly Beach Historical Society, and the Folly Beach Tourism and Visitor Promotion Committee will unveil a new historical marker at the Porgy House on Friday, September 25, 2026. The ceremony is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. at 712 West Ashley Avenue.

Built in 1933, the Porgy House served as the summer retreat for author DuBose Heyward and his wife, Dorothy. In the summer of 1934, composer George Gershwin collaborated with Heyward at the residence on the opera ‘Porgy and Bess’, which was based on Heyward’s novel ‘Porgy’. Gershwin reportedly drew inspiration from the Gullah culture and sounds of the Lowcountry during his stay.

The landmark is noted for its original wood interiors and a writer’s booth used by the Heywards and Gershwin. The unveiling will feature speakers including Folly Beach Mayor Chris Bizzell and representatives from the Folly Beach Historical Society and the Smalls family, noting that Samuel Smalls was the individual who inspired the character of Porgy.