Close to 17,000 years ago, this area was home to groups of Paleo-Indians who used the region for hunting and camping. The community of Lamesa traces its beginnings to July, 1903, when it was a part of Frank Conner’s Ranch. In those days, ranching was the primary occupation. Frank Connor, M.C. Lindsey, and J. F. Barron plotted the area into lots and christened the community “Lamesa” which is derived from the Spanish word “mesa” meaning “tableland”. This was chosen because the town is situated on a high plateau of the South Plains. In 1905, Lamesa became the county seat of Dawson County, and it was officially incorporated as a city in 1917. More recently, the economy has become based largely on cattle farming and cotton production.
South-Plains Indians
Although time and technology has taken over most of this rugged landscape, if you drive East of Lamesa, about 20 miles, you enter the Caprock Escarpment in Borden County. This picturesque view is still home to Red-Tailed Hawks, Antelope, and Coyotes. Most of the land is now privately owned, however if you have access, you can still find Indian burial grounds, and ancient writings on the canyon walls. I have seen some of these first hand, and have a great honor for the ancestors that lived so many thousands of years ago, on this rough, desert-like landscape.
Caprock Break, approx. 20 miles from Lamesa, Tx.
Should you be in the mood for a great scenic route to, or from Lamesa, I highly reccomend driving through the Caprock break(west of Snyder, to Gail on HWY 180). I have seen everything from the best Texas sunsets, to yes, even tarantula and locust migrations. It is a land that can’t even be described, but has to be felt and seen first hand.
Why did the Tarantula cross the road?
Nothing beats a Texas sunset
The Sulfur Draw still runs directly through Forrest Park today. This draw was once a primary route for ranchers and travelers alike, following it as a road, and camping along its banks. The Sulfur Draw begins at the top of Texas, and ends south of Big Springs. Today, however, it is usually a dry, cracked water bed, unless heavy rainfall quenches its thirst.
Sulfur Draw in Forrest Park, Lamesa, Tx.
Heading back into town, There is still plenty to see and explore. If it is food you are looking for, historic Spurlock’s, home of the only Superdog, or Sky-Vue drive in theatre, birthplace of the Chihuahua Burger, are sure to satisfy your cravings. Forrest Fest has annually held a music concert atop the movie reel rooftop, in honor of the legendary Buddy Holly, who took to the roof himself for an outstanding performance.
Spurlock’s Burgers and Fries
Forrest Fest musician, Steve Brooks, at the historic Sky-Vue Theatre
Every year the graduating class of L.H.S. rallies at The Wall. Students cover up last years art mural, leaving it a solid white canvas, so the current years students can leave their mark. Memorials and artwork transform this crumbling stone wall into a pure work of graffiti art
In 2011 Lamesa organized it’s first Chicken Fried Steak Festival. The annual event consists of hot air ballooning, cook-off contests, and concession booths, lined up through-out Forrest Park. This year Forrest Fest coincides with this event, so it’s sure to be an enjoyable time, had by all!
Balloons take to the skies every year at the Chicken Fried Steak Festival
Welcome to Lamesa, Texas! This sleepy little town may not buzz with city life and daily excitement, but I can guarantee it will leave a more subtle stain in your mind. One that tells of living history, and untouched plains. Settlers longing for a new chance at life, determined to grow and flourish among the mesquite-filled red desert. They were able to turn this dusty mirage into a small oasis full of stucco charm and spanish culture. Lamesa is truely small town charm at its best, where everybody knows your name.
Forrest Fest 