Lampasas History: Where Our Community Flourishes

​by Dawn Janecek

We live in a town that has a rich and diverse history. Originally, Lampasas was inhabited by different Native American tribes, such as the Tonkawa and Lipan Apache. Eventually, European settlers arrived in the mid-19th century. Because of the many springs in the area, our town’s name comes from the Spanish word, “lampazos,” which means “lilies” or “watercress.”
When the settlers arrived, Lampasas became known for the healing properties of its mineral springs. This brought people from all over the region, and soon, resorts and spas started to develop in the area.
Lampasas became the location for Confederate recruiting and training during the Civil War. Eventually, our town grew, with more settlers looking for more land and opportunities
Soon, Lampasas became a commercial and agricultural center, growing and contributing to its economy. This included farming, ranching, and wool production, taking place in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Like any location, Lampasas had its challenges throughout history. Droughts, floods, and economic struggles were evident, yet our town continued to persevere and thrive. Today, we value our town of Lampasas, a community known for its historic downtown, friendly community, and plenty of recreational activities throughout. We celebrate our history through these events, landmarks, and the great people who reside and visit here. Check back often to see what’s happening in town. There is always something to do and see and there are always friendly people who are willing to share the things which make our town special!