Located in the Pine Belt of southern Mississippi, Laurel carries all the charm and graciousness of a small town. Neighbors know neighbors and they talk as they pass each other on the sidewalk. There is nothing artificial about their greeting as they have known most of their neighbors their entire life. This is part of what I love about my exploration of the back roads of this wide-world.
Oak-lined streets with magnificent turn of the century architecture can be seen everywhere which gives HGTV’s renown “Home Town”, filmed in Laurel, plenty of beautiful solid architectural treasures to give new life. Early in the life of this small town the loblolly pine and the Gardiner and Eastman families from Iowa brought prosperity and forward thinking to this area. Not many small town can brag of a park system designed by the well-know landscape architect Fredrick Law Olmstead. Yes, THAT Olmstead!
Signs of past history can be found in many of the alleys. One of my favorite things to find are old painted signs on buildings. I always wish for them to be restored as they bring such great character to a space. The old buildings hold such wonderful history. I always enjoy going in alleys and down back streets to find some remnants of the past. The patina that these buildings hold you can literally hear telling stories. I was truly delighted to find these old buildings. They definitely speaks of a simpler time.
As Ben would say…“We kind of like a little dinge!”
I’m right there with you Ben.
While in Laurel I explored both the Laurel Mercantile, The Scotsman’s General Store and Workshop, Pinehurst Rathskeller Gallery and managed to visit Pause Espresso Bar coffee shop a time or two. Got to have a cup of joe to fuel the creativity! Painting at the General Store for the day was a real treat! I got to meet people from all over the United States and abroad. It is amazing where all of their fans come from. Demonstrating my craft was so much fun! Sharing my Irish ancestry, passion for Ireland and just what inspires me to create with visitors really was fun!
Hats-Off to You Til Next Time Laurel!