OUR HISTORY
Built on Solid Foundations
Reaching New Heights, Building Solid Foundations…Since 1953
THE BEGINNING
1953
A Company Built From the Ground Up
Archie Shaw Dargan, Jr. founded Dargan Construction Company in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, in 1953. What began as a small construction company would grow alongside the Grand Strand itself.
Myrtle Beach in the early years of Dargan Construction.
OUR STORY
More Than Seven Decades of Building
1953
Dargan Construction is Founded
Archie Shaw Dargan, Jr. establishes the company in Myrtle Beach.
1955
A Lasting Partnership Begins
Harold G. Cushman, Jr. joins Archie Dargan and becomes an important part of the company’s growth.
1992
A New Generation
Archie Shaw Dargan III returns to Myrtle Beach and takes on leadership of the company.
TODAY
A Legacy Continues
More than seven decades after its founding, Dargan continues building throughout the Carolinas.
BUILDING THE GRAND STRAND
A Legacy You Can See
From resorts and entertainment venues to higher education, Dargan’s work can be seen throughout the region.
North Beach Plantation
Pirates Voyage
Craig Wall School of Business – CCU
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THE PEOPLE WHO BUILT THE FOUNDATION
The People Behind the Legacy
Archie Shaw Dargan, Jr.
Founder · 1953
Archie Shaw Dargan, Jr. founded Dargan Construction Company in Myrtle Beach in 1953 after earning his degree from Clemson University. A World War II veteran and former P-51 fighter pilot, he brought a strong foundation of discipline and determination to his work. Under his leadership, Dargan Construction grew alongside the Grand Strand, evolving from a small residential builder into a respected commercial contractor.
Harold G. Cushman, Jr.
Partner · 1955
Harold G. Cushman, Jr. joined Archie Dargan in 1955, beginning a partnership that would span four decades. A Citadel graduate and Korean War veteran, Cushman became an important part of Dargan Construction’s growth and later served as company president. He retired in 1995 after 40 years with the company, leaving behind a lasting legacy of service and leadership.
Archie Shaw Dargan III
President & Chairman – 1982
Archie Shaw Dargan III joined the family business in 1982 and eventually became president and chairman of Dargan Construction. A graduate of Francis Marion University and a former U.S. Marine, he guided the company through another generation of growth. His leadership helped carry forward the values and relationships established by his father decades earlier.
WHAT HASN’T CHANGED
The Foundation Remains.
The buildings have changed. The Myrtle Beach skyline has changed. But the foundation remains the same.
For more than seven decades, Dargan has built relationships, served its communities, and remained committed to doing work that lasts.