Our History

Laurel Crest was born from a desire by members of First Presbyterian Church of Columbia to provide a community that would offer retirees in their congregation a vibrant, connected lifestyle as well as security for the future through a full continuum of care.

A committee was formed to pursue the project, leading to a search for land on which to build. Word of this search eventually reached Dr. Rion Dixon, a previous member of the committee, who jointly owned the land on which Laurel Crest now sits. Having purchased the land from Dr. Dixon, building plans were drawn and construction begun.

On August 29, 1994, Laurel Crest opened its doors on 17 and a half acres of riverfront property overlooking the Congaree River—offering residents a pristine setting with a beautiful, constantly changing river view as well as a magnificent skyline view of Columbia.

Laurel Crest continues today to pursue the original mission of those responsible for its creation—to encourage the independence and quality of life of residents, care for the whole person and offer security for the future.