• Explore Laurel County’s Fascinating Past

    From Boone Trace and the Wilderness Road to being home to the first world-famous Kentucky Fried Chicken, Laurel County has played a significant role in shaping Kentucky’s culture and history.

    Visit Us

FOUNDED IN 1825

Laurel County was the 80th county in Kentucky to be organized and was named after the Laurel River, noted for dense laurel thickets along its banks.

  • Travel through time by visiting our ongoing collection of virtual exhibits.

    View the exhibits

  • Learn about your very own heritage and those who made our community what it is today.

    Research

  • Help us preserve Laurel County’s history through your gifts, donations, and skillset.

    Contribute

Traces of Laurel

Laurel's History
London’s May Day Festivals
London’s May Day Festivals
The Lost Legacy of Lizzie Scoville
The Lost Legacy of Lizzie Scoville

The Lost Legacy of Elizabeth “Lizzie” Scoville

Part 1 by Nina Alvarez

China McKee family.jpg
Black History Month
 

Champion History for Future Generations

Become a member to proudly preserve and protect our incredible history for generations to come.

 

Bring History Home

Delve into Laurel County’s history through downloadable images, research documents, and historical publications.

 

Our Local Partners