A Laurens County Icon – Whiteford’s Celebrates 65 Years

If you’re relatively new to Laurens County, it might take a few weeks, but you’ll soon figure out that Whiteford’s of Clinton and Laurens are two of the go-to places for local dining and good eats. If you grew up here or lived here for a few years you can probably find your way to either location while blind folded.

This month Whiteford’s celebrates sixty-five years of serving their Giant Burger and much more to the citizens of Laurens County.

It all began when Frank Whiteford completed his military service in 1957. At that time, Frank and his two brothers, Ernie and Ray, all three of whom grew up on a farm in Cross Hill and served in the military, launched into the restaurant business.

The original Whiteford’s began on Broad Street in Clinton with only sixteen seats. Later, it would open with one hundred fifty seats on Clinton’s North Sloan Street, and, later still, the present Laurens and Clinton locations would open.

The three brothers point to their parents and God as the primary reasons for their success, in addition to a lot of hard work. Ray and his son, Stephen Whiteford own and operate the restaurant in Clinton. This January, they lost their matriarch, Linda Whiteford, who had served as their secretary. You always knew when Linda was in the house, she spent time walking the dining room and greeting customers, many who were friends for decades.  Rays brother, Ernie Whiteford, owns and operates the restaurant in Laurens

In a time when chain restaurants are taking over, it’s more than commendable that the Whiteford’s brand continues to reign in Laurens County. They work hard to cook and provide quality food.

If you haven’t been to Whiteford’s in Clinton or Laurens, what should you order?

Well, they are famous for their Giant Burger, hot dogs, fries, and many other short-order menu items, along with meat-and-three dinners, cakes, ice cream, and so much more. That’s right, the menu is large and varied so you are sure to find something that makes your mouth water.

Recently, SC Representative Stewart Jones, a native of Laurens County, presented Ernie Whiteford (Laurens) and Ray and Stephen Whiteford (Clinton) with resolutions from the SC House of Representatives recognizing them for their commitment to the community.

Congrats to Whiteford’s on 65 years of service to Laurens County!