Laurens is a city located in Laurens County, South Carolina. It was founded in 1785 and named after Henry Laurens, a South Carolina statesman. The city was originally a trading post and grew into a thriving community due to its location on the Little River. Laurens played a significant role in the American Revolutionary War, with several battles taking place in the area.
Notable people from Laurens include former NFL player Marcus Lattimore and author and civil rights activist Modjeska Simkins.
According to the United States Census Bureau, the population of Laurens was 9,139 in 2020.
Laurens is located in the Upstate region of South Carolina and is situated along the Little River. The city has a total area of 10.3 square miles.
Laurens has a diverse economy that includes manufacturing, retail, healthcare, and agriculture. The city has been working to attract new businesses and industries to the area to stimulate economic growth.
Laurens has a rich cultural heritage, with a strong focus on preserving its history and traditions. The city hosts several annual events and festivals that celebrate its heritage, including the Squealin' on the Square BBQ Cook-Off and the South Carolina Poultry Festival.