we are laurens
We are Laurens, a place of opportunity. Although the industries have changed, we are still a hard-working community, people in Laurens remain committed to quality and productivity. Today, our downtown represents an opportunity for a new generation to invest in our community and leave their mark on this place. It’s an exciting time to be in small town South Carolina. Laurens is no exception. We are committed to our Historic Square, to preservation and perseverance, to a different angle on downtown.
We are Laurens, South Carolina, and we are more than your typical southern town. We are a place of deep roots. Our heritage is rich with unique people and special places.
Since 1790, we have been a historic courthouse town in the heart of the Old 96 District. From our Cherokee heritage to our rich connection with agriculture and our economy spun by the textile mills to industry, we have been a place to make a living.
Industry still lives today, with high-tech manufacturing and international companies providing jobs to our citizens and carrying products across the globe.
Historic downtown Laurens dates to the mid-1700’s. Five roads converged where the Public Square exists today. The Square sets the scene for one of the most intimate courthouse squares in the state and makes downtown Laurens a unique
sense of place.
We are Laurens, a place of community. In simple terms, we care for one another. Historic Laurens has long been known for the people who live here – for its historic courthouse – and for its eclectic architecture.
We are neighbors and friends and tightly knit families. Whether we have been here for generations arrived just yesterday, there is a place for everyone here. We are Laurens, and we invite you to visit, stay a spell—or even a lifetime—and experience...A Laurens Way of Living.
Main Street Laurens
Main Street Laurens is a public/private partnership formed in 1996 to ensure the continual growth and prosperity of downtown Laurens. MSL is an Accredited Main Street America program and an Accredited Main Street South Carolina program. The preservation work is accomplished using the Main Street America Refreshed Four Point Approach which is a comprehensive revitalization strategy that pairs thoughtful historic preservation with sensible business assets. We blend common sense with (1) sound planning/membership, (2) economic enhancement, (3) promotion, and (4) design to rebuild the life of downtown Laurens.
Our mission is to work to promote, improve and preserve the unique character and economic vitality of Downtown Laurens.
We are working hard to make Laurens even better! Here are some of our goals:
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Market downtown as the community’s first shopping choice
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Recruit new businesses to enhance shopping and service opportunities
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Instill pride in the beauty of downtown Laurens
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Help members upgrade their buildings and facilities
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Offer professional assistance to members in various areas: marketing, resources and public relations
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Encourage total use of downtown space-Upper story development
Downtown
Goals
Our Vision
Housing in Laurens offers affordable living along with the opportunity to own a piece of history. There are neighborhood parks, local trails and lots of places downtown to explore. Festivals and events throughout the year welcome residents and visitors to Laurens.
Our 20/20 vision for Downtown Laurens is a passionate one where Downtown is the heart of the community, bringing us together to shop, socialize and have fun. Beautifully restored buildings with loft apartments and appealing storefronts continue to offer an inviting community atmosphere. Our thriving local businesses will be a competitive force offering diverse products and services for residents and visitors alike.
The Public Square offers tremendous opportunities for small businesses. Comprised of over 140,000 square feet of retail space, the Square stands as a significant shopping center for the community. The most intimate courthouse square in the state, downtown Laurens offers a unique sense of place. It remains the recognized heart of Laurens and Laurens County.
