Her wardrobe was kaleidoscopic. Her hair was longer than seven feet. There was only one “Beach Lady” on the island, and her name was MaVynee Betsch. She was born in 1935, the same year her millionaire great-grandfather, Abraham Lincoln Lewis, founded American Beach. For African-Americans living in an era when beaches were for “whites only,” this glorious two hundred acres of quartz sand was the place – the only place – to be.

MaVynee grew up here during its heyday of the 40’s and 50’s. People came from all over the South to play in the ocean, dine in the restaurants, and pack the clubs to watch musicians like Ray Charles and Cab Calloway perform.

But when segregation ended, so too did American Beach’s popularity. No longer the lone beach option, businesses closed, homes fell into disrepair. MaVynee went on to earn a degree from Oberlin Conservatory. She lived and sang opera in Europe.

Though MaVynee is no longer with us, her spirit remains. By championing American Beach’s preservation and resurgence, she ensured recognition for its special place in history. Her efforts have earned the beach a stop on the Florida Black Heritage Trail and a listing on the National Register of Historic Places.

So when you’re on Amelia, visit American Beach and take in the Beach Lady’s legacy.