Dublin Commercial Historic District

Roughly centered on Jackson Ave. and Lawrence St., Dublin, GA
Local significance of the district:
Agriculture; Architecture; Commerce; Community Planning And Development; Industry; Politics/government; Transportation

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2002.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

Georgia was the site of the first European settlement in what is now the United States. In 1565, the Spanish established a settlement on St. Simons Island, which is now part of Georgia.
Laurens County, Georgia, has a rich and diverse history dating back centuries. The area was originally inhabited by Creek and Cherokee Native American tribes. The arrival of European settlers in the late 18th century brought about significant change. The county was officially created in 1807 and named in honor of Henry Laurens, a South Carolina statesman and the president of the Continental Congress.

During the antebellum period, Laurens County witnessed the growth of agriculture, particularly cotton production, and the corresponding rise in slave labor. The region's fertile lands and proximity to major trade routes facilitated the establishment of plantations and the development of a strong plantation economy. The county remained heavily reliant on slave labor until the end of the Civil War.

Following the Civil War, Laurens County embarked on a slow process of recovery and reconstruction. Agriculture continued to be a dominant force in the local economy, but cotton production declined over time. The county experienced periods of economic prosperity and decline throughout the 20th century, impacted by various factors such as the boll weevil infestation, economic recessions, and changes in farming practices.

In recent decades, Laurens County has witnessed significant growth and development. The county has diversified its economy beyond agriculture, attracting industries such as manufacturing, distribution, and healthcare. It has also seen an increase in population and the expansion of infrastructure and amenities. Today, Laurens County stands as a vibrant and dynamic community that celebrates its rich history while embracing the opportunities of the future.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Laurens County, Georgia.

  • 1807 - Laurens County is established
  • Early 19th century - The county experiences rapid population growth
  • 1831 - The city of Dublin is incorporated
  • 1861-1865 - Laurens County sends soldiers to fight in the American Civil War
  • Late 19th century - The county thrives as a leading producer of naval stores and agricultural products
  • 1892 - The Dublin Cotton Mill is established, bringing industrialization to the area
  • 20th century - Laurens County continues to develop economically and socially
  • 1940s-1950s - The military plays a significant role in the county's economy during World War II and the Korean War
  • 1972 - The Oconee Fall Line Technical College opens in Dublin
  • Present - Laurens County remains a vibrant and growing community in Georgia