When most people think of local legend, they imagine the tales of a hard-boiled Oak Park detective or a sage steward who helped save the neighborhood’s beloved local grocery store. But when it comes to the world of local lore, there are so many more stories to tell than just the familiar ones.
Across rural America, in forested woods and remote lakes, there is room for the strange and weird to take root. While skeptics might consider them farfetched or silly, these kinds of folk narratives can be invaluable to the study of popular rural culture. These folklore tales, technically known as marchen or ‘Wonder Tales’, offer valuable insight into the unique and enduring spirit of a rural community.
Launching this month, Hilton Head’s newest brewery, Local Legend Brewing Company, pays tribute to the people, places and stories that define its storied past. Located in a former Grayco hardware store, the brewery and restaurant blend creativity with a warehouse-meets-cozy aesthetic. With its beer garden, uniquely crafted brews and menu that traverses American food culture, Local Legend is not just a place to grab a pint – it’s a place for community.