originally posted on 8/11/2025
Photo: Johnny McWilliams collection. View full-sized image.
On Saturday, July 19, ACE Southeast members and guests gathered for Coastin’ on the Coast, a summertime celebration of one of the South’s most charming seaside amusement parks — Family Kingdom in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
For 33 attendees traveling from across the Southeast and from as far away as Ohio and Florida, this event offered a day packed with classic thrills, coastal vibes and coaster history.
For many, John Allen’s classic Swamp Fox was the highlight of the event.
Photo: Johnny McWilliams. View full-sized image.
Festivities kicked off at 2 p.m. with ERT on the legendary Swamp Fox, which recently celebrated its 59th anniversary in June. This classic wooden coaster, which stands proudly along Ocean Boulevard, offered plenty of airtime and nostalgic charm before the park opened to the public.
In addition to being a fantastic ride, Swamp Fox is an ACE Roller Coaster Landmark.
Photo: Johnny McWilliams collection. View full-sized image.
Photo: Michael Dutterer. View full-sized image.
Photo: Michael Dutterer. View full-sized image.
Once Family Kingdom officially opened its gates, attendees enjoyed unlimited access to the park’s wide variety of rides — including two additional roller coasters and a refreshing log flume that was especially welcome on a hot 94-degree day.
The park’s small Dragon was nonetheless popular with attendees.
Photos: Michael Dutterer. View full-sized image.
A group photo in front of Swamp Fox captured the spirit of the event, followed by a special presentation at 4:15 p.m., during which park official Dean Corl shared highlights from the history of Family Kingdom and provided insight into the ongoing care and restoration efforts of Swamp Fox. He also spoke candidly about the challenges of maintaining a wooden coaster so close to the ocean, noting the dedication required to preserve this beloved ride.
Guests were also encouraged to stop by the ACE Roller Coaster Landmark plaque located at the entrance to Swamp Fox. The plaque tells the rich story of the ride, from its 1966 debut to its post-Hurricane Hugo restoration and its designation as an ACE Roller Coaster Landmark in 2016.
Swamp Fox.
Photo: Johnny McWilliams. View full-sized image.
As the sun began to set, many attendees couldn't resist a few final rides on Swamp Fox. True to tradition, the coaster seemed to pick up speed as the day cooled, leaving riders with lasting memories and big smiles.
Attendees were grateful to the incredible team at Family Kingdom for their hospitality, smooth ride operations and dedication to preserving one of the South’s most iconic coasters. ACE Southeast can’t wait to return next year for Swamp Fox’s milestone 60th anniversary celebration!
— Johnny McWilliams, ACE Southeast Assistant Regional Representative
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