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Lampasas County is a county located in the central part of Texas. It was established in 1856, and since then, it has played a significant role in Texas history. Here are seven interesting facts about Lampasas County that you might not know.
1. Lampasas County was named after the Lampasas River, which runs through the county. The river's name comes from the Spanish word “lampazos,” which means “mops” or “scrubbing brushes.”
2. Lampasas became a popular destination for health seekers in the late 1800s because of its mineral springs. Many people came to Lampasas to drink the water, which was believed to cure various health problems. Today, the Hancock Springs Free Flow Pool is still in operation and is open to the public.
3. During the Civil War, Lampasas County was the site of several skirmishes. Confederate forces held the town of Lampasas for a time, using it as a staging area for raids on Union forces. Union troops eventually recaptured the town, but not before a significant amount of damage was done.
4. In 1867, the town of Lampasas became the site of the first hanging in the county. John Wesley Hardin, a notorious outlaw, was hanged for the murder of a deputy sheriff. His trial and hanging drew a large crowd of spectators.
5. The town of Lampasas was once home to an infamous outlaw gang called the Sam Bass Gang. The gang robbed trains and banks throughout Texas in the 1870s. A posse led by Texas Ranger Captain Junius Peak eventually caught up with the gang, and a shootout ensued. Sam Bass was mortally wounded and died a few days later.
6. Lampasas County has a rich agricultural history. The county was once home to many cotton, corn, and wheat farms. Today, agriculture still plays a significant role in the county's economy, with ranching and hunting being popular activities as well.
7. Lampasas County is also known for its military history. During World War II, the U.S. Army built Camp Hood (now Fort Hood) in neighboring Bell County. Many troops trained at Camp Hood before being shipped overseas. The military presence in the area continues to this day, with Fort Hood being the largest active duty armored post in the U.S. Army.
In conclusion, Lampasas County has a fascinating history that includes outlaw gangs, Civil War skirmishes, and a rich agricultural tradition. Today, Lampasas County remains an essential part of Texas’s history and contributions to the state's economy, military, and cultural heritage.
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