Welcome to the Town of Gray Court
A Rich History, A Bright Future
The Town of Gray Court is a community where history, heritage, and hometown pride come together. Nestled in the heart of Laurens County, Gray Court has grown from a small railroad village into a welcoming town that honors its past while embracing the future.
Originally known as Dorroh or Dorrohville, the settlement was named after the Dorroh family, one of the area’s earliest families. During the Civil War, the community consisted of only four homes and served as a stagecoach stop for travelers making their way through the Upstate of South Carolina.
Everything changed with the arrival of the railroad. Between 1885 and 1886, the Charleston & Western Carolina Railway was constructed through the area, bringing new opportunities for commerce, travel, and growth. The first train arrived in 1886, and according to local tradition, the engineer suggested naming the town Gray Court after the prominent Gray family who lived nearby.
On August 31, 1886, residents celebrated the railroad’s arrival with the first passenger excursion. Free rides were offered from Laurens to Greenville and back, allowing local citizens to experience train travel for the very first time.
On October 17, 1899, the community officially changed its name from Dorrohville to Gray Court, and on October 20, 1899, the Town of Gray Court received its official charter. Just one year later, the 1900 United States Census recorded a population of 181 residents.
Education has always played an important role in the community. In 1902, the Gray Court and Owings schools combined to form the Gray Court-Owings School, a campus that remains one of the town’s most treasured landmarks. Today, the historic school grounds are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, preserving an important piece of Gray Court’s heritage for future generations.
Transportation continued to shape the town when Highway 14 was constructed through Gray Court in 1937, improving access for residents and businesses alike. In 1954, Pleasant View Primary School opened its doors, reflecting the community’s continued growth and commitment to education.
Gray Court Today
Today, Gray Court is home to approximately 850 residents and continues to be a close-knit community rich in history, tradition, and small-town charm.
Visitors will discover:
- Beautiful historic homes and churches.
- Locally owned businesses along Main Street.
- The historic Gray Court-Owings School campus.
- Family-friendly parks and community events throughout the year.
- A town committed to preserving its heritage while encouraging thoughtful growth and revitalization.
Conveniently located just south of Greenville in Laurens County, Gray Court is easily reached from Interstate 385 by taking Exit 19 (Highway 14) or Exit 16 (Highway 101). Travelers can also reach the town via Highway 14 from Laurens or Highway 101 from Hickory Tavern.
Whether you are visiting for a festival, exploring local history, supporting small businesses, or considering making Gray Court your home, you will find a community that welcomes everyone with genuine Southern hospitality.
Then & Now
| Then | Now |
| Four homes and a stagecoach stop | A growing community of approximately 850 residents |
| Railroad arrived in 1886 | Convenient access via I-385 and major highways |
| Passenger excursions connected Laurens and Greenville | Community festivals, parks, and thriving local businesses |
| Small farming community | Historic preservation with opportunities for future growth |
Welcome to Gray Court
“Where History Lives and Community Thrives.”
On behalf of the Mayor, Town Council, town staff, and the citizens of Gray Court, we extend our warmest welcome to you.
Whether you’re here for a day or a lifetime, we invite you to experience our history, enjoy our hospitality, and become part of a community that takes pride in its past while building an even brighter future.
Town of Gray Court
“We Are Striving to Improve.”