Cities and Towns in Dawson County, Texas
Founded in 1876, Dawson County is one of 254 counties in the state of Texas. Historically, Dawson County was formed from Bexar County. The city of Lamesa is the county seat. With FIPS code of 115, Dawson County has a population of 12,413 and area of 902 square miles (2,336 km²).
Major Cities and Towns in Dawson County, Texas
Dawson County is located in the western part of Texas, within the South Plains region. It was established in 1876 and named after Nicholas Dawson, a soldier in the Texas Revolution. The county is primarily agricultural, with a focus on cotton and cattle ranching, though oil production has become a notable part of the local economy. The county seat is Lamesa, a town that has played a central role in the development of the area. Dawson County’s landscape is characterized by its flat terrain, which is well-suited to farming and ranching. The county’s economy has historically been dependent on agriculture, but it has also seen growth in oil drilling and natural gas extraction. The county seat and largest city, Lamesa, has seen steady population growth and serves as a hub for local trade and commerce. Dawson County is an important part of the Texas economy, with farming, ranching, and energy production continuing to dominate its economic activities.
Lamesa
General Information
- Area: 5.7 square miles
- Population: Approximately 9,000 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 79331
- Latitude/Longitude: 32.7356° N / 101.9545° W
City Location and History
Lamesa, the county seat of Dawson County, is located in the western part of Texas, roughly 55 miles south of Lubbock. The town was founded in 1903, shortly after the arrival of the railroad and the completion of a nearby railroad depot, which facilitated the transportation of cotton and other goods. Named after the Spanish word “Lamesa,” meaning “table,” due to the flat landscape around the town, Lamesa grew quickly as an agricultural center. During its early years, the town became a prominent location for cotton farming, which played a significant role in the economy of the region. The discovery of oil in the area during the early 20th century also boosted the local economy, though cotton remained the dominant agricultural product. Lamesa’s location along U.S. Highway 84 made it a central point for trade and commerce. As a result, the town developed into a key community in the South Plains. Today, Lamesa remains an agricultural town with a rich history of farming, ranching, and oil production.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Lamesa is served by the Lamesa Independent School District, which offers a wide range of educational opportunities, from elementary through high school. Major schools in the area include Lamesa High School, known for its competitive athletics program, and Cavazos Middle School, which serves a large portion of the student body. The town is also home to South Plains College, which offers higher education opportunities and vocational training. Key landmarks in Lamesa include the Dawson County Historical Museum, which houses exhibits about the area’s history, including the contributions of early settlers, oil production, and agriculture. Lamesa also celebrates its agricultural heritage with annual events such as the Lamesa Cotton Festival, a popular event that includes a parade, live music, and community activities. The Coca-Cola Building, a historic landmark in the downtown area, is a notable reminder of the town’s early commercial development. Nearby, Lake Lamesa provides opportunities for recreation, including boating and fishing, making it a popular local destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
