Sound Beach - How It Grew

At the other end of town, at the intersection of New York & Echo Avenue was Scotty's Tavern and Deli (Gene's Kitchen). Up the hill from Scotty's was a Beer and Soda store (Now it's Handy Pantry) and further on was Rulau's Lumber & Hardware. Across from Rulau's was Ennis' Candy Store, which had a big screened in deck where the kids could go to dance. Next to Rulau's was Ziegler's Well Drilling had an office. Not too far from that was Ward's Grocery Store.

Yet, the focus of everything was always the BEACH - the blue skies, the clear water, the camaraderie - for hours and hours every day. At night, families would come to the beautiful pavilion overlooking the West Beach at the top of the cliff. Parents would chat and watch the sunset. Refreshments could be bought at a food stand on the pavilion operated by "Sunny", admired by all the teenage boys - and their fathers too. It was a sad day when the pavilion collapsed due to a heavy rainstorm that eroded the cliff in minutes and washed away the sandy soil below. The pavilion was never replaced and a bright part of Sound Beach life and history was lost.

Through it all, the S.B.P.O.A. remained strong, guarding their precious heritage. Stairs were built and rebuilt after hurricanes and erosion destroyed them. Beaches were cleaned of debris and bulldozed to bring in sand. The clubhouse was painted and refurbished by members. Fundraisers that were "fundraisers" were held to raise money for needed projects. Numerous petitions were sent to local officials for assistance. All too often, we had to do it ourselves. Over the years as membership dwindled those who remained became even more dedicated to the preservation of our Association. Our volunteers today are our heart and soul.

>> Sound Beach - The Future