When you think of the South Carolina Lowcountry, images of moss-draped oaks, serene salt marshes, and incredible seafood usually come to mind. But if you linger long enough near the waters of Murrells Inlet, you might hear a different kind of story—one of forbidden love, a lost ring, and the restless spirit of Alice Flagg.
At the heart of this legend sits The Hermitage, an antebellum treasure that remains one of the most storied homes in the Palmetto State.
๐️ A Glimpse into the Past
Built around 1849, The Hermitage is a stunning example of Greek Revival architecture. Originally constructed as a summer retreat for the wealthy Flagg family, the house was designed to catch the cool breezes coming off the inlet.
While many historic homes have fallen to time or hurricanes, The Hermitage still stands today as a private residence, keeping its secrets behind its grand pillars and historic walls. It serves as a centerpiece for the Murrells Inlet Historic District, reminding us of the era of the great rice plantations.
๐ The Tragic Tale of Alice Flagg
The history of the house is inseparable from the tragedy of Alice Belin Flagg. As the story goes, the young and beautiful Alice fell in love with a man her wealthy brother, Dr. Allard Flagg, considered beneath her station.
Despite the disapproval, Alice accepted a ring from her lover, wearing it on a ribbon hidden beneath her dress. When she tragically fell ill with a fever (likely malaria), her brother discovered the secret token. In a fit of rage, he allegedly tore the ring from her neck and flung it into the salt marsh.
Alice died soon after, reportedly clutching her chest and searching for the ring that represented her only true happiness.
๐ป A Resident Ghost?
To this day, locals and paranormal enthusiasts claim that Alice has never truly left. Known as "The Lady in White," she is said to haunt the halls of The Hermitage and the nearby grounds.
Sightings: Many claim to have seen a spectral figure in a white gown drifting through the home or standing by the window, staring out toward the inlet as if waiting for someone to return.
The Grave: While she lived at The Hermitage, Alice is buried at All Saints Episcopal Church in nearby Pawleys Island. Her grave is marked with a simple stone that reads only one word: ALICE.
The 13-Lap Legend: Local folklore says that if you walk backward around Alice’s grave thirteen times, her spirit will appear to ask for her missing ring.
๐ Visiting The Hermitage Today
While the original Hermitage home is a private residence and not open for public tours, the surrounding area has been developed into a beautiful gated community that bears its name. Visitors to Murrells Inlet can still feel the weight of history while driving past the historic oaks and looking out over the marshes where Alice’s ring was lost so long ago.
If you’re a fan of Southern Gothic history or urban legends, a trip to Murrells Inlet isn't complete without a nod to The Hermitage. It’s a place where the line between history and mystery is as thin as the coastal mist.
Have you ever felt a chill while exploring the Lowcountry? Share your favorite Southern ghost stories in the comments below!
