The City of Lawrenceville

"The Crepe Myrtle City"

 

The city of Lawrenceville is named after Captain James Lawrence, commander of the frigate Chesapeake during the war of 1812. During a battle near the coast of Boston, Lawrence commanded his crew "Tell the men to fire faster and not give up the ship". These words so inspired Gwinnett resident William Maltbie that he suggested naming the town in Captain Lawrence's honor. A paraphrase of Captain Lawrence's words "Don't give up the ship" later became the motto of the US Navy which has also named numerous ships in his honor.

 

Lawrenceville is the County Seat of Gwinnett County and was incorporated on December 15, 1821 which makes it the second oldest city in the Atlanta area. Lawrenceville is home to 22,397 residents and is located 35 miles Northeast of Atlanta.

Beautiful downtown Lawrenceville has several unique shops and historic attractions including the Gwinnett County Courthouse which was built in 1885 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.