City Spotlight: Lockhart
If you’re headed to the city of Lockhart, don’t ask for directions. Just roll down your truck windows and let the sweet scents of barbecue glory lead you there.
Established in 1840 as a farming community, Lockhart was once best known for the grazing cattle that were headed for the Chisholm Trail. Today, the city is distinguished by a noticeably delicious aroma, as it has become known as the Barbecue Capital of Texas, a title awarded by the Texas Legislature in 1999.
How Lockhart Got Its Name
When Byrd Lockhart first stepped foot on the land that would soon become his namesake, he did so as the assistant surveyor of Texas empresario Green DeWitt. Lockhart was tasked with setting boundaries for cities in Central Texas. He fell hard for this slice of the state and began building roads and developing farmland with money out of his own pocket. Although Byrd actually lived in what is today known as Gonzales, Lockhart took his name to honor his generous contributions that paved the path to the city’s future.
What to Do
- Go hog-wild. No visit to Lockhart would be complete without a meal in at least one of the city’s famous barbecue restaurants. If you can fit them all in, even better! Start with Black’s Barbecue, and then work your way through Chisholm Trail Bar-B-Que and Smitty’s Market before ending up at the Kreuz Market.
- Grab a sammie. If you somehow tire of barbecue, step into one of the amazing delis Lockhart has to offer, namely T&C Café, LuLu’s Lunch Box, and Market Street Cafe and Apothecary.
- Check out the library. The Dr. Eugene Clark Library is the oldest continuously operating public library in Texas, and it offers great insight into the history of the city. Want to leave your mark on the town? Bring a gently used book, CD, VHS tape, or DVD to donate to the library’s collection or annual Friends of the Library Book Sale.
- Tour the big screen. Many movies have been filmed in Lockhart. The city’s historic courthouse and town square have made it into films like Waiting for Guffman and What’s Eating Gilbert Grape.
- Watch fireworks. Since 1992, Lockhart has been home to one of the best Fourth of July shows in the state of Texas. This year is no different, and the viewing party will take place on July 3 at City Park with numerous food and craft vendors and live performances, setting the stage for an evening that won’t soon be forgotten.
Start planning your visit to Lockhart by visiting the city’s website or by using your Texas Farm Bureau membership to take advantage of travel deals on hotels, car rentals, amusement parks, and more!
© 2017 Texas Farm Bureau Insurance
