Texas Cities

Region: Hill Country

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

Hancock Park, a 109-acre municipal facility, includes Hancock Springs, source of water for public baths a century ago.

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

Downtown buildings feature local limestone construction; several restored and others planned. Most originally built in 1880s.