[2][3] Laurel High School was founded in 1899[3] with an enrollment of 59 students and four teachers.

[6] After the high school left, the building was owned by the county and named the Edward Phelps Community Center.

When the project's low bidder failed to give bond and didn't continue with the contract, Phelps assumed the risk for completion of the work at that price, ultimately losing $1,000 of his own money.

[7] Beginning in 1974, the space was rented to the Laurel Boys and Girls Club, for $1 a year.

[8] The building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979 as "Laurel High School".