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Lockhart, TX

Frequently asked questions

Lockhart, TX

Lockhart is a city and the county seat of Caldwell County, Texas, United States. According to the 2020 census, its population was 14,379. 

Lockhart is located at 29°52′55″N 97°40′34″W (29.881870, –97.676040). Located near central Texas, Lockhart is 30 miles (48 km) south of downtown Austin on U.S. Highway 183. It is 70 miles (110 km) northeast of San Antonio and 156 miles (251 km) west of Houston. 

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 15.6 square miles (40.4 km2), of which 0.04 sq mi (0.1 km2), or 0.14%, is covered by water.

The city of Lockhart is named after Byrd Lockhart, an assistant surveyor of Green DeWitt and reportedly the first Anglo to set foot in Caldwell County. Lockhart was the site of a victory of the Texans over the Comanche, at the Battle of Plum Creek in 1840. Lockhart was originally called "Plum Creek", but the name was later changed to Lockhart. 

The town's economic growth began with the arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century when the town became a regional shipping center for local cotton. Following the arrival of the railroad, immigrants arrived in Lockhart and opened various businesses.

Lockhart has several claims to fame. In 1999, the Texas Legislature proclaimed Lockhart the "Barbecue Capital of Texas"; Lockhart has four major barbecue restaurants. The Dr. Eugene Clark Library is the oldest operating public library in Texas. Lockhart was also the subject of an article by the architectural historian and critic Colin Rowe and architect John Hejduk, first published in Architectural Record in 1957 and republished in the collection of his writings As I Was Saying (1996). Rowe and Hejduk see Lockhart as a "curiously eloquent" example of a Victorian post-frontier American town.

As of the 2020 United States census, there were 14,379 people, 4,503 households, and 2,944 families residing in the city. As of the census of 2000, 11,615 people, 3,627 households, and 2,691 families were residing in the city. The population density was 1,032.7 people per sq mi (398.6/km2). The 3,871 housing units averaged 344.2 per sq mi (132.9/km2). The racial makeup of the city was 65.42% White, 12.68% African American, 0.67% Native American, 0.34% Asian, 0.06% Pacific Islander, 18.00% from other races, and 2.82% from two or more races. Hispanics or Latinos of any race were 47.41% of the population.

In terms of health and wellness, Lockhart provides a range of amenities to cater to residents' well-being.  The Ascension Seton Lockhart Health Center Colorado, anchored by the Lockhart Hospital, ensures access to quality medical services, promoting the overall well-being of the community. Explore the parks, facilities, and programs offered by the Lockhart Parks and Recreation Department. These spaces provide opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking, jogging, sports, and picnicking. Join local fitness centers and gyms to participate in exercise programs, fitness classes, and strength training. Some popular options include Snap Fitness, Anytime Fitness, and Senior Citizen Activities Center. Discover the walking and biking trails in and around Lockhart, such as the Lockhart State Park and the Lockhart City Park. These trails offer opportunities for outdoor exercise and enjoyment of nature.

Top sites in Lockhart, TX are Southwest Museum of Clocks & Watches, Spellerberg Projects Gallery, and Gaslight-Baker Theatre.

Population: 15,318 (2023). ZIP code: 78644. Area code(s): 512. Elevation: 515 ft (157 m). Area: 15.64 sq mi (40.50 km2).

FAQs

What is Lockhart, TX famous for?

For over 20 years, Lockhart has officially been known as the Barbecue Capital of Texas by the Texas Legislature. Lockhart has attracted tourists and residents since it’s home to three of the state’s best barbecue restaurants – Black’s Barbecue, Kreuz, Chisholm Trail, and Smitty’s.  Lockhart’s barbecue history dates back to 1875. Unlike other places in Texas, the barbecue restaurants in Lockhart rarely sell out even on busy days and customers receive their food and table within around 20 minutes. 

Is Lockhart, TX a good place to live?

Lockhart is in Caldwell County. Living in Lockhart offers residents a sparse suburban feel and most residents own their homes. Many families live in Lockhart and residents tend to have moderate political views.

What is the poverty rate in Lockhart, TX?

In 2022, the median household income of Lockhart households was $68,270. Lockhart households made slightly more than Alvin households ($68,266) and Circle D-KC Estates households ($68,234). However, 11.4% of Lockhart families live in poverty.

Sources

Wikipedia 

City of Lockhart

Ascension Seton Lockhart Health Center Colorado

Lockhart Parks and Recreation Department

Snap Fitness

Anytime Fitness 

Senior Citizen Activities Center

Lockhart State Park 

Lockhart City Park

Southwest Museum of Clocks & Watches

Spellerberg Projects Gallery

Gaslight-Baker Theatre

Aquila Commercial

Niche

Texas Demographics

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