The Tony Harper Exhibit Hall hosts most of our permanent exhibits. We will always be grateful to the contributions Tony Harper made to the Laurens County Museum.

Ann Pamela Cunningham: Rosemont to Mount Vernon

Ann Pamela Cunningham was America's first preservationist. From Waterloo, South Carolina, she is responsible for saving the home of George Washington from ruin. She established the Mount Vernon Ladies Society in 1853, and this organization still maintains Mount Vernon today.

Serving in Laurens County

Many Laurens County natives gave their life in service to the military. We want to honor their sacrifices and patriotism in this exhibit. 5 wars are featured: the Civil War, World War I, World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. 

Worship in Laurens County

Religion has played a huge role in the development of Laurens County, and in the present. This exhibit gives some background on early religion in Laurens and its role in the Revolutionary War. The exhibit features some of the oldest churches in Laurens and shares some of the spiritual influences of the present day. 

Agriculture in Laurens County

Agriculture has been a major industry in Laurens County. This exhibit focuses on the history of agriculture and the role of cotton in Laurens County. It also shares insights into current day farms throughout the county.

Industry in Laurens County 

Industry in Laurens County is diverse and varied, but this exhibit gives special attention to the Textile mills of Laurens County and their impact on the culture and economy. It features textile baseball, the company store, and the history of the major mills in the county. 

Other pieces of industry on display share the bridge between an agricultural society to an industrial society.

Laurens Glass Works

Laurens County Glass Works was one of the largest employers in the county for many years. It was a prominent business in South Carolina and bottles from the Laurens plant were sent all over the world. This collection has many unique bottles made by Laurens Glass Works.

Notable People of Laurens County

There have been a number of individuals from Laurens County that have gone on to accomplish amazing things. This wall includes a wide range of people, such as professional athletes, governors, musicians, actors, writers, dancers, a beauty pageant titleholder, and a  U.S. president.

Education in Laurens County

This exhibit houses a replica of a one-room schoolhouse and features 4 educators from Laurens County: Robert Childress, Dr. Wil Lou Gray, Martha Franks and Dr. William Plumer Jacob.