LCtoday recently asked: “Which Lawrence County business from the past do you wish would come back?” The question sparked nostalgic conversation, drawing hundreds of responses as residents reminisced about beloved businesses of days gone by.

Here’s a look at the top responses:

1. Texas Burger 🍔 (39 mentions)

Clearly, Texas Burger holds a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of Lawrence County residents. The iconic local eatery was famous for its large burgers topped with peppers and its beloved pizza burgers. As Jeanie Nelson put it, “I need one of those giant burgers with the pepper on top and some cream from there 🤤😋.” Many shared her sentiment, recalling fond memories of meals shared with family and friends.

2. The Hospital & Emergency Room 🏥 (18 mentions)

The closure of Lawrence County’s hospital and emergency room deeply impacted the community. Residents like Tammy Roberts stated plainly, “The hospital emergency room would have to be the most important thing!” Many remembered the quality care and dedicated medical staff, reflecting on a time when emergency care was close to home.

3. Western Auto 🔧 (8 mentions)

Western Auto was fondly remembered as the go-to spot for automotive supplies, hardware, and household items. It clearly left an impression, highlighting its importance as a reliable, hometown business.

4. Dairy Queen (especially in East Lawrence and Town Creek) 🍦 (9 mentions)

Many residents, like Ginger Gillespie Fuller, enthusiastically mentioned Dairy Queen. The nostalgic memories of ice cream cones and classic fast-food fare resonated, particularly the loss felt in East Lawrence and Town Creek.

5. Bargain Town/Super 10 🛍️ (5 mentions)

These stores were remembered for their affordable clothing, shoes, and accessories. Tangela Renea Rodriguez reminisced, “Boy, did they have nice & cheap clothing & shoes & etc…” highlighting the value these businesses brought to local families.

6. Piggly Wiggly in East Lawrence 🛒 (5 mentions)

Residents recalled the convenience and community feel of having a Piggly Wiggly in East Lawrence, noting the importance of local grocery options.

7. The Paper Mill (International Paper) 🏭 (9 mentions)

Several commenters, including Franklin Kirkham, strongly emphasized the importance of the paper mill’s return, noting its economic impact: “The paper mill should be the only answer to this question. That started the domino effect to why schools, businesses, and the hospital have been shut down.”

8. Miscellaneous Favorites

Town House Restaurant – Judy England Louallen fondly recalled dining memories here.
Big Ed’s Cajun Grille – remembered for its flavorful dishes.
Rainbow Drive-In – nostalgically missed by several commenters.
Ott’s Chicken – remembered as a cozy upstairs dining spot.
The Apple Tree – recalled warmly by numerous residents.
Huddle House – intriguingly mentioned by Carlos Key, sparking curiosity about its past location.

Residents also recalled other fond businesses like Moody’s, the original Steak & Biscuit, Wagon Wheel, Ben Franklin’s, Cato, Elmore’s, and local grocery stores across the county.

Final Thoughts

This exercise in nostalgia highlighted just how much Lawrence County residents value their past businesses—not just for their products, but for the memories and sense of community they fostered. Clearly, businesses like Texas Burger, the hospital, and local grocery and retail stores have left an enduring mark on the community’s collective memory.

What’s your favorite memory from a business of the past? Let us know!

Gone but Not Forgotten: Lawrence County Businesses That Deserve a Comeback