Originally called Plum Creek, town is near site of fierce battle that took place Aug. 12, 1840. A volunteer force of settlers and Texas Rangers met a renegade war party and...

Originally called Plum Creek, town is near site of fierce battle that took place Aug. 12, 1840. A volunteer force of settlers and Texas Rangers met a renegade war party and defeated them at what is called the Battle of Plum Creek. Present city named for Byrd Lockhart, pioneer surveyor. Town was southern terminus of Chisholm Trail in 1870s. Today, city is center for agriculture, farming, oil and other diversified industries.

The Texas Legislature named Lockhart the Barbecue Capital of Texas, and there are four BBQ establishments in the city and they estimate about 23,000 people visit their restaurants each week (equals approx. 1.2 million people per year).

City’s largest event, held annually during second weekend in June, is Chisholm Trail Roundup featuring Kiwanis 5K Run and BBQ Cook-Off. Other festivals include Rites of Spring, Cinco de Mayo, Fourth of July, Dies y Seis, Evening With The Authors, Dickens on the Square and a Holiday Homes Tour.

Lockhart Chamber of Commerce: At 631 South Colorado St. Open Mon.–Fri. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. 512/398-2818. www.lockhartchamber.com

Greater Caldwell County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce: At 117 E. Walnut. 512/398-9600. info@lockharthispanicchamber.org.