Often, pirates are associated with large amounts of rum. Just ask Johnny Depp or watch any of the Pirates of the Caribbean movies. South Carolina also has a favorite, liquored-up pirate that is said to haunt Murrells Inlet. Never mind what you do with a drunken sailor- what would you do with a drunken pirate?
Legend says Jack was a crew member on Blackbeard’s boat who successfully helped procure a large amount of Caribbean rum. There was so much alcohol that the shipment slowed them down. While in the area, Blackbeard thought it would be a good idea to offload some of the cargo on one of the little islands in the inlet.
The crew had a hearty seafood feast with plenty of drinks that night. Jack found shelter under some nearby bushes to sleep off the hangover. The next day, when he woke, everyone was gone. When they realized that Jack was not on board, they figured he could take care of himself and that they would return for him when it was time to pick up the rum.
Two years later, his pirate buddies returned and found 32 empty rum casks and a skeleton. If you are on the Marsh Walk in Murrells Inlet, look right off the jetties and see Drunken Jack Island.
His spirit is said to still haunt the area, seeking companionship and another drink.
Today, Drunken Jack’s restaurant keeps the lore alive.
Written By: John G. Clark Jr.
