Visitors to Vereen Memorial Historical Gardens can make a wish at a special tree hidden along the boardwalk and trails.
The 'Wishing Tree', an old Cypress tree, sits on a beach covered with oyster shells that naturally wash up in the park.
The 'Wishing Tree' started over 20 years ago, by Jack Crowley. Crowley was a head volunteer at the gardens.
To make a wish, bring a marker. Find a shell along the beach, and write the wish on it. Hang the shell on the tree to make a wish. Over the years, visitors have brought string or ribbon, while others have found shells with holes that fit small branches on the tree.
Hundreds of shells hang from the tree. It's said the wish comes true when the shell falls from the tree.
The tree is a piece of natural public art featured on the Myrtle Beach Arts & Gallery Trail.
This magical place is a feature along the approximately three miles of nature trails and boardwalks that meander through the gardens. Vereen Memorial Historical Gardens is situated along the Intracoastal Waterway on over 115 acres of forest and marshland. The gardens also feature a small section of the original King's Highway, a colonial route connecting Boston and Charleston.
Vereen Memorial Gardens, located at 2250 Hwy. 179, Little River, SC 29566, is open from dawn to dusk. The adjacent C.B. Berry Community Center is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.