Genealogy

The Laurens County Library has an extensive collection of materials relating to this area's
history and its people. These resources are available to all residents and visitors. Because
of the valuable nature of these materials, all must be used in the library.

While the library cannot undertake individual research, the staff will gladly assist you with
the use of these resources.

The South Carolina Room is open during all regular hours of the library. If you are coming
from out of town it is suggested that you call before your visit to make sure that the library
will be open for your research. Holidays and staff work may cause a schedule change.

SPECIALIZED LIBRARY RESOURCES

   SC for 1790 - 1920 (no 1890);
   Some NC, VA, GA, TN, & KY Federal Census;
   Some special census schedules.
   Other census records can be rented through the library

Military Records:

   American Revolution, Civil War & WW I and II.

Note: There are no official marriage records prior to 1911, nor birth/death records for SC until 1915.
           We do have various compiled information from minister, church and newspaper accounts.

SC Death Certificate Index on Microfiche:

   1915-1924, 1925-1934, 1935-1949. (Index only);
    Death records less than 50 years old are closed to the public.
    Actual death certificates are available through the local health department or through the SC Archives in Columbia, SC.

Will & Estates Records for Laurens County:

    1785-1900 on microfilm

More recent records are available at the Laurens County Probate Office,  101 Hillcrest Square, Laurens, SC 29360.

DAR Lineage Books and Cemetery Records:

    for Laurens and adjacent counties

Local Newspapers:

    Laurens Advertiser beginning 1885;
    Laurensville Herald June 1845 to July 1929 (incomplete);
    Clinton Chronicle recent years.

Clinton Chronicle beginning 1919 is housed at Presbyterian College, Clinton, SC.

Other Local Resources:

   Maps;
    Family Histories (929.2);
    Bible & Church Records.

Genealogical Magazines:

     South Carolina Magazine of Ancestral Research,  Brent Holcomb, editor
     SCGS Carolina Herald
     Genealogical Helper
     Various newsletter and publications of SCGS chapters

Some Helpful links:

 

Laurens County Library, 1017 West Main Street, Laurens, South Carolina 29360 phone: (864) 681-7323  fax: (864) 681-0598 last update 7/20/2004