Historic Laurens has long been known for the people who live here - for its historic courthouse - and for its eclectic architecture.

Historic downtown Laurens dates to the mid-1700's. Five roads converged where the Public Square exists today. The Square served as the commercial, social, and religious center of the city. In 1980 the Square was included in the National Register of Historic Places for its unusually intact collection of architecture from the 19th and 20th centuries.

Today, 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.

It's an exciting time to be in small town South Carolina. Laurens is no exception. Laurens has experienced a renewed sense of self with beautification grants from the South Carolina Department of Transportation. As a result of funding for downtown streetscape projects, Laurens has made tremendous progress and has gained exposure on a national level.

Laurens has undergone a series of public improvements, thanks in large part due to the SC Department of Transportation Beautification Grant Program. Streetscape Phase I included the installation of period lights, benches, and sidewalk enhancements on the courthouse square. Streetscape Phase II included the installation of crape myrtles and period lighting along North Harper Street along with a corner gateway park behind City Hall. Phase III included the creation of 11 pedestrian crosswalks as well as enhancement of the north and south parking islands. Phase IV will begin soon, and will include the installation of period lighting and sidewalk enhancement for both Silver St. and Franklin St.

Excitement has also staretd to buzz around the revival of the historic Capitol Theater. Originally built in 1926, the Capitol was one of two theaters located in the downtown. Unfortunately, in 1964 the theater clsoed it's doors. Then in the late 1990's, Ronnie and Debbie Campbell purchased the building to open a ladies clothing store. After discovering the historic stage and theater in workable condition, Ronnie was bitten by the renovation bug. He began the arduous task of renovating the Capitol Theater and bringing new life to a grand old building. In 2004, Ronnie and Debbie opened the Capitol Cafe in the front of the building. With a fifty's theme, the cafe quickly became THE place to get great burgers and ice cream. Then in October 2006, Ronnie installed a new marquee reminiscent of the original sign for the theater. Finally, in May 2007, Ronnie and Debbie opened the thetaer to first run movies. Now the Capitol Theater and Cafe will once again have an important impact on historic downtown Laurens.

Buildings, streets, and the physical environment tell the story of a town's history. Laurens has a fantastic story to tell.  Let us share this story with you.