In recognition of a seven-figure donation made by the family of the late Henry B. Burroughs Jr. of Conway, S.C., Coastal Carolina University has announced the naming of the Henry B. Burroughs Jr. Archives and Special Collections that will be housed in the soon-to-be-renovated Kimbel Library. The naming opportunity was approved by the University’s board of trustees in December.

“Henry B. Burroughs Jr. was a pillar of our community,” said CCU President Michael T. Benson. “His vision for the development of the Grand Strand has resulted in one of the nation’s top family-friendly vacation destinations. We are very grateful that his family has chosen to recognize his legacy through their generous donation to the University.”

The Burroughs’ family donation establishes an endowed fund that supports the University’s archives and special collections, including hosting local, national, and international collections and guest speakers, the preservation and promotion of various collections, and student employment opportunities.

“Growing up in Conway among multiple generations of close family, my father was imbued with an enduring love for Horry County, its landscape, history, and people,” said Henry B. Burroughs III. “This strong connection to the county motivated his work in real estate and history preservation.”

Burroughs Jr. was born and raised in Conway, S.C. He graduated from the Rochester Institute of Technology and served in the U.S. Coast Guard, and ultimately retired as a lieutenant commander from the U.S. Coast Guard Reserves. In 1963, Burroughs returned home to Horry County to serve in various family businesses. At Burroughs & Chapin, his knowledge of the county made his input concerning property invaluable, and his passion for history was key to his role as company historian. Prior to his death in 2009, Burroughs was active with the Conway Chamber of Commerce, the Lions Club, the Horry-Georgetown Technical College Foundation board, and Westminster Presbyterian Church ARP of Conway.

“When the family of Henry B. Burroughs Jr. expressed an interest in a naming opportunity at the University as a way to honor him, the archives and special collections was the perfect match,” said Diane Sanders, CCU’s vice president for advancement and alumni engagement. “Henry’s family shared about his commitment to our community and love for preserving its history, so it is very fitting to have Henry’s name forever associated with his hometown University. This gift will have a profound and lasting impact on CCU, the Grand Strand, and beyond. We are so very grateful to the family of Henry B. Burroughs Jr., as major private donations such as theirs are paramount to the success of Coastal Carolina and our students.”