LAMPASAS

Population 6,352

Altitude 1,025

General

Established as Burleson in early 1850s, name changed with creation of Lampasas county; made county seat. Mineral springs popular among Indians long before white settlers arrived, and they still flow hardly half a mile from native stone courthouse, which is on National Register of Historic Places. Historic structures include Keystone Hotel, early Texas landmark-stagecoach stop, now restored savings-and-loan office. Sportsmen find prime hunting for white-tailed deer, wild turkey, quail, mourning dove, and excellent fishing in local creeks and nearby Lampasas and Colorado rivers.

Lampasas lies on U.S. 190, a segment of the Ports to Plains Highway connecting the state's heartland to coastal ports.

City is participant in Texas Main Street Project. Downtown buildings feature local limestone construction; several restored and others planned. Most originally built in 1880s.

Attractions

• KEYSTONE SQUARE MUSEUM-Housed in and early frontier building, museum features variety of changing exhibits devoted to such subjects as Texas rangers, early-day saloon items, Indian artifacts, ranch and home implements, tools, and old-fashioned crafts. Open Sat. & Sun. 1-4 P.m., 304 S. Western St. Admission.
• PARKS-HANCOCK PARK, 109-acre municipal facility includes Hancock Springs, source of water for public baths a century ago and now the city water supply. Picnic and playgrounds, swimming pool, pavilion and nine-hole golf course. Southwest of city, off U.S. 281.
• W.M. BROOK PARK offers outdoor theater, picnic and playgrounds, gazebo. South side of city, off U.S. 190.
• SAFARI LTD. EXOTIC ANIMAL PARK-Over 50 species of animals on exhibit. Petting area for children. Open Mon. - Sat. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sun. 1-6 p.m. 13 miles south on U.S. 183. Admission. 512/556-8254.

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