Catching up with Andy McClellan of Mama Jean’s Christmas Trees
Before writing this column, I only knew Andy as the man at 112 East Ashley Ave., directing traffic and running Mamma Jean’s Christmas Tree sales. Many people know his parking lot because of the Christmas in Heaven Tree, a large one in his front yard where people from all over the world hang photos of loved ones who have passed on. When the editor received a recommendation to interview Andy, I was pleased to chat with him, surrounded by family photos and learn about his history with Folly Beach.
FOLLY CURRENT: Where were you born and how long have you been tied to Folly Beach?
ANDY McCLELLAN: I was born in downtown Charleston in 1967. I came to Folly Beach for the first time almost immediately, so I’d say 58 years. My parents bought a home here in 1968 and finally sold it off in 1996. They had owned several homes on the island over the years. They had seven children and at one point we had a house on the beach with 10 bedrooms and 10 bathrooms.
FC: What’s your favorite thing about Folly Beach?
AM: The sense of community is truly remarkable. When individuals in Folly face challenges, residents consistently show collective support. For example, after the unfortunate passing of Super Dave in the fire across the street, many members of the community offered their condolences. Similarly, following the tragic loss of the bride due to a drunk-driving incident, the island united at the paddle out ceremony, with her husband present on the beach in an all-terrain wheelchair. In difficult times, this community demonstrates genuine compassion and solidarity.
FC: Share a story that you’re fond of about Folly Beach.
AM: During Hurricane Hugo, my brother and I tried to stay back, drinking tequila while our parents left for Columbia. Police wouldn’t let us stay, so we hunkered down just over the bridge. After the storm hit, we couldn’t cross the bridge back. The mayor, who had many other things to deal with, let us know our house survived, although many nearby homes were destroyed. The first floor of what’s now the Tides Hotel was completely exposed to the ocean. Hearing our house was safe, brought me great relief.
FC: In your opinion, what is the most important issue facing our community today?
AM: Recently, behind our house, someone was carjacked, and the perpetrator fired a shot into the air, with the bullet landing in a spot unknown. He originally tried to carjack a mother and child, but she had her own gun that she flashed and sped off. I heard her yelling and I came running out. He succeeded at the next car . The police sped across the island at top speed after him. That popping sound is something I will always remember.
A few years before that a pedestrian was killed while walking in the rain in front of my house. I met with his widow afterwards. The private investigator was right outside asking questions. I’ll never forget that either. My traumatic experiences highlight the importance of public safety on the island. While the police presence and surveillance are effective, we must remain vigilant to maintain our paradise.
FC: If you were in charge, how would you fix it?
AM: We need more sidewalks—every street should have one. My wife Tara is from New Jersey, and in Ocean City, NJ every road has sidewalks. I love the crosswalk at Planet Follywood, with its flashing lights; more of these safety features would benefit Center Street. Sidewalks should be added over the new pipes now covered with dirt, and pedestrian safety should always be the top priority for Folly Beach.
Pat “Wiggy” Hiban interviews a different “Face of Folly” for this column each month. If you have an idea of someone you think Pat should chat with, please send suggestions to editor@follycurrent.com.
