Lancaster, Texas

Lancaster, Texas
City

Lancaster's Historic Town Square
Nickname(s): The City of Trees

Location of Lancaster in Dallas County, Texas
Coordinates: 32°36′8″N 96°46′30″W / 32.60222°N 96.77500°W / 32.60222; -96.77500Coordinates: 32°36′8″N 96°46′30″W / 32.60222°N 96.77500°W / 32.60222; -96.77500
Country United StatesUnited States
State TexasTexas
County Dallas
Government
 • Type Council-Manager
 • City Council Mayor Marcus Knight
Carol Strain-Burk
Stanley Jaglowski
Marco Mejia
James Daniels
LaShonjia Harris
Nina Morris
 • City Manager Opal Mauldin Robertson
Area
 • Total 30.3 sq mi (78.6 km2)
 • Land 30.3 sq mi (78.4 km2)
 • Water 0.08 sq mi (0.2 km2)
Elevation 522 ft (159 m)
Population (2012)
 • Total 37,845
 • Density 1,200/sq mi (480/km2)
Time zone Central (UTC-6)
 • Summer (DST) Central (UTC-5)
ZIP codes 75134, 75146
Area code(s) 214, 469, 972
FIPS code 48-41212[1]
GNIS feature ID 1339599[2]
Website Lancaster-TX.com

Lancaster is a city in Dallas County, Texas, United States. The population was 36,361 at the 2010 census.[3] Founded in 1852 as a frontier post, Lancaster is one of Dallas County's earliest settlements. Today, it is a suburban community located in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, approximately 15 miles (24 km) south of Downtown Dallas.[4]

Lancaster is part of the Best Southwest area, which includes Lancaster, Cedar Hill, DeSoto, and Duncanville.

History

Early settlement

In 1841, an act of the Republic of Texas Congress authorized President Mirabeau Lamar to enter into a contract with William S. Peters and nineteen associates to promote settlement in North Texas and paid the company with free land in exchange for recruiting new settlers. Around 600 families would settle in what became known as Peters Colony from 1841 through 1844. The Peters' group advertised heavily in Kentucky, Illinois, Missouri, and Tennessee, and for that reason, many of the earliest settlers were from those states.[5] The first group to settle in the Lancaster area was Roderick Rawlins and his family from Greene County, Illinois. They left for Texas in September 1844. Rawlins and two of his sons-in-law came ahead to select the general area where they would settle. They chose an uninhabited area south of Dallas along the north bank of Ten Mile Creek as the site of their new settlement. In December 1844, the three men went back to Lamar County near the Red River to bring the rest of their wagon train.[5] All of the settlers had arrived by January 2, 1845 and they formed a community known as Hardscrabble. It consisted of two rows of log cabins with a street running north and south. In total, 30 men, women, and children lived in Hardscrabble.[5]

Several miles north of Hardscrabble, a second community called Pleasant Run was established in 1846 by Polly Rawlins, one of Roderick's daughters, and her husband Madison Moultrie "M.M." Miller.[6] Together, the Miller's built a two-room structure with one room used as a general store and the other for living.[7] By 1848, the structure had grown to fifteen rooms, a separate store, and a warehouse. A post office was established with biweekly mail delivery and Miller as postmaster. By 1850, he had laid out a town and sold lots, but never filed a plat of the community with Dallas County. At its peak, Pleasant Run boasted a stage stop, school, and steam-powered grist mill in addition to Miller's store. Accelerated by the death of M.M. Miller in 1860, Pleasant Run declined. Shortly after the Rawlins' settlers abandoned the Hardscrabble settlement, Lancaster became the dominant community in the area.[8]

Founding of Lancaster

The founder of Lancaster was "A" Bledsoe (some sources list his name as Abram Bledsoe[9] or Albert A. Bledsoe[10]). He was born in Lancaster, Kentucky in 1801. An interesting note regarding his name: according to family lore, when his father Moses first looked at his newborn son, he is said to have remarked, "he looks like a Bledsoe." Thus his name, A Bledsoe, is unmarked by a period.[6]

Bledsoe surveyed and staked off the original town of Lancaster in 1852.[11] He purchased 430-acres of land from the widow of Roderick Rawlins and modeled it after his Kentucky hometown. The layout featured a town square with streets entering from the center of each side rather than from the corners. Bledsoe began selling lots at a public auction in 1853, reportedly giving as many as two-thirds of them to settlers from the nearby Pleasant Run community.[5] The official plat of the town of Lancaster wasn't filed with Dallas County until 1857. Bledsoe would later serve as Dallas County Judge and State Comptroller. He died in 1882.

In 1860, a post office was established in Lancaster.[12]

Progress and challenges

Lancaster's Historic MKT Depot and Rose Garden

During the American Civil War, the Tucker, Sherrod & Company contracted with the State of Texas to manufacture replicas of the .44 caliber Colt Dragoon from a factory on West Main Street in Lancaster.[13] John M. Crockett, former mayor of Dallas and lieutenant governor of Texas, served as superintendent of the arms factory.[14] In the early years of Reconstruction, a drought crippled the economy to such an extent that few residents could afford more than the most basic of necessities. It would be well into the 1870s before the economy fully recovered, due in large part to the town's proximity to heavily-trafficked cattle trails. The first public well was dug in the city of the town square in 1876. Fires destroyed parts of the square in 1877, 1889, and again in 1918, each time being promptly rebuilt.[6] Local telephone service came to Lancaster in 1881. Lancaster was incorporated on May 5, 1886.[8] One year later, the Lancaster Herald newspaper began printing.[12]

In December 1888, Lancaster's train depot opened as a stop on the Dallas and Waco Railway. In 1891, it became part of the Missouri–Kansas–Texas Railroad (MKT) line, running from Dallas to the Gulf Coast of Texas.[15] The Lancaster Tap Railroad, completed in 1890, connected the MKT line in Lancaster with the Dallas-Houston line of the Houston and Texas Central Railway (H&TC) in Hutchins, 4.5 miles away. It operated for 44 years.[16] Rene Paul "R.P." Henry opened the first official bank in 1889. By 1897, the town had a public school, Masonic Temple, a chapter of the International Order of Odd Fellows (IOOF), and a variety of Christian churches. From 1898 to 1901, Texas Christian University founder Randolph Clark established Randolph College in Lancaster.[17][18] After its closure, the facilities were used continuously until they burned in 1912 fire.[19]

Early 20th century

At the start of the 20th century, Lancaster had 1,045 residents and served hundreds more from the surrounding rural areas who worked, worshiped, attended school, and made their purchases in the town. The Texas Legislature created the Lancaster Independent School District in March 1905 and voters approved several bond elections over the next decade that improved educational facilities. Electric lighting was introduced in 1911 via the Texas Power and Light Company when the interurban Texas Electric Railway (Dallas to Waco) ran through town.[11] Lancaster remained tied to its surrounding agricultural lands. Farmers produced a wide range of crops, including wheat, cotton, beans, peas, and sweet potatoes. Many agricultural-related businesses also thrived until the Dust Bowl and Great Depression caused the economy to contract.[19] On February 27, 1934, Clyde Barrow of Bonnie & Clyde fame robbed the R.P. Henry and Sons Bank that was then located near the southeast corner of the town square. Bonnie Parker waited in the getaway car on Malloy Bridge Road while Clyde and Raymond Hamilton walked in, robbed the bank, and walked out with over $4,000. In June 1936, a storm toppled Lancaster's 50,000-gallon water tower, brought down utility poles and damaged many homes. It wasn't until the early 1940s that the economic climate began to show improvement.[11]

Suburbanization

Between 1900 and 1940, Lancaster's population grew slowly, ranging between 1,000 and 1,200 at each census. In 1950, the population had risen to just over 2,600. Soon after, the growth rate rapidly increased as Lancaster began to transform from a small town into a suburban bedroom community of Dallas. By 1960, there were 7,501 residents living in the city, a 185 percent increase over the 1950 figure.[6] Highlights of the 1970s included a 1975 urban renewal project to improve the town square, which had suffered a loss of businesses to areas outside of downtown, and the opening of Cedar Valley College in 1977.[6] Significant development continued into the 1980s. A hospital, two shopping centers, four schools, several apartment complexes, and a number of new residential subdivisions were built to accommodate the growing population.

Recent history

1994 Tornado damage and repair are evident in the brick color on the former White Bank Building on Lancaster's Historic Town Square.

On the night of April 25, 1994, a violent F4 tornado ripped through Lancaster, killing three and injuring nearly 50 others. More than 250 homes and every building on the town square was heavily damaged or completely destroyed by the roughly half-mile wide tornado.[20][21] The White & Company Bank building, a local landmark since 1898, was severely damaged in the tornado but was rebuilt, and in 1998 reopened as headquarters for the Lancaster Economic Development Corporation.[22]

In 2005 and 2006 Lancaster was a finalist for the All-America City Award.[23] In 2007 the National Arbor Day Foundation designated Lancaster a Tree City USA.[24]

Between 2000 and 2010, Lancaster's population increased by 40 percent, making it one of the fastest-growing cities in Dallas County during the decade.

On April 3, 2012, an EF-2 tornado struck the city as part of the April 3, 2012 tornado outbreak. 300 structures were reported damaged. A tornado emergency was not called for Lancaster, but a tornado emergency was called for the nearby cities of Dallas, Greenville, and Arlington.[25] No deaths were reported from either the Lancaster tornado or any other tornado that day.

Geography

Lancaster is located in southern Dallas County and is part of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, the largest metropolitan area in the state of Texas. According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 30.35 square miles (78.6 km2), of which 30.28 square miles (78.4 km2) is land and 0.07 square miles (0.18 km2) is water.[26] On November 14, 2011, a tract of land covering 2.9 square miles (7.5 km2) within Lancaster's extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ) was annexed into to the city.[27]

Lancaster is situated within the Blackland Prairie region of Texas, which is characterized by level to gently rolling topography. Ten Mile Creek and its tributaries are a major drainage feature in and around the city. Because much of the area was used for farming and other agricultural business, much of the natural vegetation has been cleared. Areas near creeks have retained some of their original tree cover, which includes pecan trees, cedar elms, and several species of oak.[28]

Climate

Lancaster is located within the humid subtropical climate zone (Köppen climate classification: Cfa), which is characterized by hot, humid summers and mild to cool winters. On average, July is the warmest month and January is the coolest month. The maximum average precipitation occurs in May.

Climate data for Lancaster, Texas
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Average high °F (°C) 57
(14)		 61
(16)		 69
(21)		 77
(25)		 84
(29)		 92
(33)		 96
(36)		 96
(36)		 89
(32)		 79
(26)		 67
(19)		 58
(14)		 77.1
(25.1)
Average low °F (°C) 37
(3)		 41
(5)		 49
(9)		 56
(13)		 65
(18)		 73
(23)		 77
(25)		 77
(25)		 69
(21)		 58
(14)		 48
(9)		 39
(4)		 57.4
(14.1)
Average precipitation inches (mm) 2.06
(52.3)		 2.70
(68.6)		 3.49
(88.6)		 3.07
(78)		 4.92
(125)		 4.11
(104.4)		 2.21
(56.1)		 1.87
(47.5)		 2.84
(72.1)		 4.79
(121.7)		 2.88
(73.2)		 2.74
(69.6)		 37.68
(957.1)
Source: The Weather Channel (extremes) [29]

Demographics

Historical population
Census Pop. %±
1880497—
189074149.1%
19001,04541.0%
19101,1156.7%
19201,1906.7%
19301,133−4.8%
19401,1511.6%
19502,632128.7%
19607,501185.0%
197010,52240.3%
198014,80740.7%
199022,11749.4%
200025,89417.1%
201036,36140.4%
Est. 201438,453[30]5.8%
U.S. Decennial Census[31]

2010 Census

At the 2010 United States Census[32] there were 36,361 people, 12,520 households, and 9,252 families residing in the city. The population density was 1,200.8 per square mile (463.6 km2). There were 13,622 housing units at an average density of 449.9 per square mile (173.7 km2). The racial makeup of the city was 24,997 (68.75%) African American, 7,409 (20.38%) White (12.90% Non-Hispanic White), 128 (0.35%) Native American, 106 (0.29%) Asian, 13 (0.04%) Pacific Islander, 2,951 (8.12%) from other races, and 757 (2.08%) from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 6,164 (16.95%) of the population.

There were 12,520 households, out of which 4,892 (39.1%) had children under the age of 18 living with them, 5,159 (41.2%) were married couples living together, 3,393 (27.1%) had a female householder with no husband present, and 3,268 (26.1%) were non-families. 2,788 (22.3%) of all households were made up of individuals and 593 (4.7%) had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.88 and the average family size was 3.36.

The population was spread out with 11,350 people (31.2%) under the age of 18, 3,250 (8.9%) aged 18 to 24, 10,676 (29.4%) aged 25 to 44, 8,457 (23.3%) aged 45 to 64, and 2,628 (7.2%) who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 32.3 years. For every 100 females there were 84.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 78.5 males.

2000 Census

As of the census[1] of 2000, there were 25,894 people, 9,182 households, and 6,895 families residing in the city. The population density was 884.0 people per square mile (341.3/km²). There were 9,590 housing units at an average density of 327.4 per square mile (126.4/km²). The racial makeup of the city was 37.63% White, 53.00% African American, 0.49% Native American, 0.39% Asian, 0.05% Pacific Islander, 6.58% from other races, and 1.85% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 11.59% of the population. As of the 2000 census, Lancaster is the largest African American-majority city in Texas.[33]

There were 9,182 households out of which 40.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 49.4% were married couples living together, 20.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 24.9% were non-families. 21.3% of all households were made up of individuals and 6.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.77 and the average family size was 3.22.

In the city the population was spread out with 30.5% under the age of 18, 8.6% from 18 to 24, 32.3% from 25 to 44, 19.6% from 45 to 64, and 9.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 32 years. For every 100 females there were 85.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 80.9 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $43,773, and the median income for a family was $48,498. Males had a median income of $33,406 versus $30,653 for females. The per capita income for the city was $18,731. About 6.1% of families and 8.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 11.1% of those under age 18 and 8.7% of those age 65 or over.

Economy

In its early years, Lancaster was an agrarian market center for the surrounding area. The arrival of railroads in the late 19th century transformed the community into a transportation hub. As the city has grown, the economic base has diversified. Today, light industrial manufacturing, distribution, health care, education, residential development, and retail services are all significant components of the local economy.[34]

Lancaster has attracted the attention of logistics-related companies in recent years. The city's location in the fast-growing Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex region, land availability, easy access to three major interstate highways, Lancaster Regional Airport, and a planned 200-acre BNSF intermodal freight facility round out the logistic options of road, rail, and air for the transport of goods.[34] ProLogis Park 20/35 at the northeast corner of Houston School Road and Cedardale Road is the largest logistics business park in Lancaster. It was developed in 2006 and now houses manufacturing and warehouse facilities for ProLogis, Quaker Oats/PepsiCo, and BMW among others.[35][36][37]

According to the Lancaster's Department of Economic Development,[4] the top employers in the city are:

# Employer # of Employees
1 Lancaster Independent School District 689
2 Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. 450
3 BrassCraft Manufacturing 390
4 Oak Creek Homes 280
5 Cedar Valley College 225
6 City of Lancaster 212
7 AT&T Material Distribution Center 200
" Consolidated Mail Outpatient Pharmacy 200
" Swift Transportation 200
" United Natural Foods, Inc. 200

Government

Local government

The City of Lancaster is a home-rule city with a council-manager form of government. Under this type of local government, the day-to-day management of the city is directed by a city manager. The city manager is appointed by the city council and serves as chief administrative officer for the city. Opal Mauldin Robertson is the current city manager of Lancaster.

The seven-member city council consists of the mayor, who represents the city as a whole and is elected at-large, and six members elected in single-member districts. The current electoral system was implemented in 1994.[38] The mayor and city council members serve staggered three-year terms.[39] Marcus Knight is the current mayor of Lancaster.

District Council member
1 Carol Strain-Burk
2 Stanley Jaglowski
3 Marco Mejia
4 James Daniels, Mayor Pro Tem
5 LaShonjia Harris, Deputy Mayor Pro Tem
6 Nina Morris

The city of Lancaster is a voluntary member of the North Central Texas Council of Governments association, the purpose of which is to coordinate individual and collective local governments and facilitate regional solutions, eliminate unnecessary duplication, and enable joint decisions.

State and national representation

Lancaster is located in Texas' 30th congressional district of the U.S. House of Representatives and is represented by Democrat Eddie Bernice Johnson. In the Texas Legislature, Lancaster is in District 23 of the Texas Senate, represented by Democrat Royce West.[40] In the Texas House of Representatives, the city is part of District 109, which is represented by Democrat Helen Giddings.[41]

Education

Primary and secondary schools

Lancaster High School

Lancaster is served mainly by the Lancaster Independent School District (LISD). The school district consists of eleven campuses: seven elementary schools, one sixth grade center, one middle school, one high school, and an alternative school.[34] Approximately 6,800 students were enrolled in LISD as of Fall 2013.[42]

The Dallas Independent School District (DISD) serves a small portion of the city that includes the subdivisions of Cedardale Highlands, Taylor Brothers, and Lancaster Gardens.[43] Students living in this area are zoned to Wilmer-Hutchins Elementary School,[44] Kennedy-Curry Middle School,[45] and Wilmer-Hutchins High School.[46] The area had been part of the Wilmer-Hutchins Independent School District (WHISD) until the district was ordered closed prior to the start of the 2005-2006 school year. Dallas ISD agreed to absorb WHISD after Lancaster, which was given the first option to take over the district, declined.[47]

There are two public charter schools in the city. Life School Lancaster opened in 2007 and serves students from Kindergarten through sixth grade. In January 2012, the Accelerated Intermediate Academy (AIA) opened an elementary campus in Lancaster on East Belt Line Road.

Berne Academy is the sole private school in Lancaster.

Colleges and universities

Cedar Valley College, a two-year accredited institution affiliated with the Dallas County Community College District (DCCCD) is located on the border of Lancaster and Dallas. The college offers workforce training, continuing education, and college preparatory programs.[34] As of Spring 2013, 6,375 students were enrolled at the campus.[48]

The University of North Texas at Dallas campus is located just north of the Lancaster city limits in far southern Dallas.

Public library

Lancaster Veterans Memorial Library is located in Lancaster Community Park. The library relocated from a building on West Main Street in downtown to its present location in May 2001.[49] The 23,000 square foot facility includes a public meeting room, reading lounge, and genealogical center.[34] Lancaster residents can obtain a library card free of charge, which entitles the bearer to borrow materials and use the public access internet computers. Non-residents may purchase a library card for a nominal, annual fee.[50]

Just north of the library is a paved contemplative garden funded by the non-profit Friends of the Lancaster Veterans Memorial Library organization.[51][52]

Media

Lancaster's newspaper of record is the Focus Daily News. The DeSoto-based daily newspaper serves the southern suburbs of Dallas and is currently the largest circulation suburban daily newspaper in the state of Texas.[53]

Parks and recreation

The responsibilities of Lancaster's Parks and Recreation Department include park maintenance, recreation programs, and management of recreational facilities.[54]

Parks

The system of public parks in Lancaster covers more than 600 acres.[55] The 170-acre Lancaster Community Park is the most utilized park in the city. It features a six-acre pond known as Contemplation Lake with a fishing pier, lighted football and soccer fields, hiking/biking trails, playground, amphitheater, and the Royce Clayton Baseball Field, which has a covered grandstand that can seat 500 spectators.[56] The Recreation Center, Senior Life Center, Library, and Public Safety Building are located in the park.

Lancaster City Park is another highly utilized park in the city with four baseball/softball fields, two playgrounds, two tennis courts, a basketball court, walking trail, and an off-leash area for dogs. The park also has two concession stands and two large pavilions, each with 15 tables.[57] The Cedardale Park and Complex in northern Lancaster contains baseball/softball fields, a basketball court, playground, and concession stand.[58] There are smaller neighborhood parks located throughout the city with playgrounds and other amenities. They are J.A. Dewberry Park, Jaycee Park, Kids Square Park, Meadowcreek Park, Rocky Crest Park, Stanford Park, and Verona Park. Heritage Park, which contains an iconic gazebo, is located north of the historic town square in downtown Lancaster.[59] The newest addition to the park system is the 2.4 mile Pleasant Run Hike and Bike Trail, which opened in the spring of 2010 and is routed through neighborhoods in central Lancaster.[60]

Two nature preserves have been established in Lancaster, Bear Creek Nature Park and the Ten Mile Creek Preserve. The 189-acre Bear Creek Nature Park was created on land purchased with a $500,000 matching grant from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.[61] Features of the park site include equestrian and walking trails with interpretive signage, a fishing pond, climbing rock, butterfly garden, and a large pavilion for picnics.[34][62] Additionally, there is an outdoor classroom and educational programs available for children. The Ten Mile Creek Preserve sits on land donated to the city by Dallas County. It remains largely undeveloped to protect the natural meadows and wooded areas. A two-mile unpaved trail runs through the preserve.[63]

Facilities

The 64,000 square foot Lancaster Recreation Center features an indoor water park, gymnasium, elevated jogging track, and a fitness atrium with an aerobics/dance room. The building also includes a banquet room and catering kitchen that can be utilized for meetings and other social events. The banquet room has a covered outdoor terrace and courtyard that overlooks Contemplation Lake.[34][64]

The Senior Life Center is a full-service activity center serving adults aged 50 years and older. The 11,500 square foot building opened in December 2008.[65] The facility includes a dining hall, commercial kitchen, classrooms, computer lab, and reading lounge.[34] Transportation to and from the center is available for Lancaster residents in need.[66]

Country View Golf Course is an 18-hole, par 70 public golf course located on West Belt Line Road. It was designed by Florida architect Ron Garl and opened for play in 1989. The course spans 6,461 yards from the back tee with Bermuda grass fairways.[67] There is a chipping area, putting green, and driving range as well as on-site golf pro shop and sports bar.

Culture

Museums

The 45,000 square foot Cold War Air Museum is located on the grounds of Lancaster Regional Airport. Flying aircraft from the Cold War-era are exhibited as well as related artifacts, artwork, and library resources from that period. A portion of the museum is a working restoration facility which actively returns Cold War-era aircraft to flying status.[68]

Also located at Lancaster Regional Airport, the Commemorative Air Force Museum–Dallas/Fort Worth Wing is dedicated to the preservation of combat aircraft of World War II.[68]

The Lancaster Visitors Center & State Auxiliary Museum is located in the renovated Interurban Building at the corner of Dallas Avenue and Main Street, the museum contains exhibits and historical artifacts showcasing the history of Lancaster and the State of Texas. The building also houses the Lancaster Chamber of Commerce and visitors center.[68]

The Rocky Crest Museum highlights a collection of historical items connected to Rocky Crest School - Lancaster's first school for African-Americans, its former students, and the surrounding community. The museum is located at the J.D. Hall Learning Center on Second Street, site of the former Rocky Crest School.

Landmarks

Lancaster has three properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places: the Randlett House, Captain R. A. Rawlins House, and the W. A. Strain Farm-Strain House.

Texas Historical Marker at the site of Rocky Crest School, which served Lancaster's African-American students prior to desegregation.

The Texas Historical Commission has designated 14 sites in the Lancaster area with historical markers.[6] Listed below are the sites in Lancaster with state historical markers and the year they received the designation:

  • Towns/Communities
    • Town of Lancaster (1974)[69] - This marker commemorates the founding of Lancaster and is located in the Historic Town Square.
    • Pleasant Run (1974)[70] - This marker commemorates the former Pleasant Run community and is located at the Regions Bank building on North Dallas Avenue.
  • Historic Homes
    • Captain R. A. Rawlins House (1964)[71]
    • W. A. Strain House (1977)[72]
    • Winniford House (1994)[73]
  • Educational Institution
    • Rocky Crest School (2012)[74]
  • Graveyard
    • Edgewood Cemetery (1974)[75]
  • Places of Worship
    • First Presbyterian Church of Lancaster (1976)[76]
    • First United Methodist Church of Lancaster (1976)[77]
    • First Baptist Church of Lancaster (1977)[78]
    • First Christian Church of Lancaster (1979)[79]
    • St. Paul Freewill Baptist Church (1985)[80]
  • Former Sites
    • Site of the Confederate Arms Factory (1936)[81]
    • Former Site of Head House (1978)[82]

Community events

Several community events are held in Lancaster throughout the year. In January, the Lancaster Martin Luther King, Jr. Foundation hosts the annual MLK parade and gala.

The Lancaster Country Ride, sponsored by Greater Dallas Bicyclists (GDB), takes place each April. The route begins at the town square and traverses the back roads of Lancaster.

The annual July Fourth celebration is held at Lancaster Community Park and features family activities, food, and a fireworks show. It is a joint collaboration between the cities of Lancaster and DeSoto.

The Dallas/Fort Worth Wing of the Commemorative Air Force hosts Warbirds on Parade in the late summer (August/September). The event at Lancaster Regional Airport features restored World War II aircraft, military vehicles, memorabilia and classic cars.

In October, an Oktoberfest celebration is held by the Lancaster Historic Society. Lancaster High School's homecoming parade is also held during the month.

A Christmas parade and festival is held in December. The festival includes a tree lighting, live entertainment, and carnival games.

The city sponsors two "Trash Off" events in the spring (March) and fall (September). Residents participate by bringing bulk trash, recyclables, tires, scrap metal, brush, and electronic waste for disposal. Local organizations and volunteers also participate in clean-up campaigns across the city.

2nd Saturday on the Square is a long-standing tradition in Lancaster. Held at the historic town square on the second Saturday of each month, the event features food, music, entertainment, and a variety of commercial vendors.

Infrastructure

Transportation

Lancaster is served by two interstate highways. Interstate 35E forms the western boundary of the city and east-west access is provided by Interstate 20, located on the far-north side of Lancaster. Interstate 45 is situated approximately five miles to the east.

Principal thoroughfares within the city include State Highway 342 (running north-south, also known as Dallas Avenue), Houston School Road (north-south), Pleasant Run Road (east-west), and Belt Line Road (east-west).[83]

Lancaster Regional Airport is a public use airport located two miles southeast of the central business district of Lancaster. Currently used for general aviation purposes, the airport is publicly owned by City of Lancaster and serves as a reliever airport for Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport and Dallas Love Field.[84] It has one runway designated 13/31 with an asphalt surface measuring 6,502 by 100 feet (1,982 x 30 m).[85]

There is no public transportation in Lancaster and the city is not a member of Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART). The Cedar Valley College campus is served by Bus Route 553, which is currently the southernmost stop on DART.[86]

Health care

Crescent Medical Center Lancaster is an 84-bed acute care general hospital located at 2600 West Pleasant Run Road. The hospital was formerly known as the Medical Center at Lancaster, which closed in 2008. After being purchased by new owners and undergoing major renovations, Crescent Medical Center opened on June 17, 2013.[87]

References

  1. 1 2 "American FactFinder". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved 2008-01-31.
  2. ↑ "US Board on Geographic Names". United States Geological Survey. 2007-10-25. Retrieved 2008-01-31.
  3. ↑ "Profile of General Population and Housing Characteristics: 2010 Demographic Profile Data (DP-1): Lancaster city, Texas". U.S. Census Bureau, American Factfinder. Retrieved 13 January 2012.
  4. 1 2 Just The Facts Brochure - Department of Economic Development. City of Lancaster. Retrieved 14 February 2014.
  5. 1 2 3 4 Lancaster Historical Society (2009-11-30). Lancaster (Images of America). Arcadia Publishing. ISBN 9780738578767. Retrieved 2014-02-17.
  6. 1 2 3 4 5 6 "DESIGN GUIDELINES. Historic Residential Landmarks and Properties within the Historic District of Lancaster, Texas". City of Lancaster, Texas; Quimby McCoy Preservation Architecture, LLP. Retrieved 2014-02-12.
  7. ↑ "Madison Moultrie "Mote" Miller (1813-1860)". Find A Grave. Retrieved 2014-02-12.
  8. 1 2 "1998 Dallas County Historic Resource Survey" (PDF). Dallas County Historical Commission. Retrieved 2014-02-12.
  9. ↑ "Captain Abram Bledsoe". The Restoration Movement. Retrieved 2014-02-12.
  10. ↑ "Bledsoe, Albert A.". The Handbook of Texas online. Retrieved 2014-02-12.
  11. 1 2 3 "History of Lancaster, Texas". Lancaster Genealogical Society. Retrieved 2014-02-17.
  12. 1 2 "Lancaster, Texas (Dallas County)". The Handbook of Texas online. Retrieved 2014-02-17.
  13. ↑ "Gun Manufacturing During The Civil War". The Handbook of Texas online. Retrieved 2014-02-12.
  14. ↑ "Crockett, John McClannahan". The Handbook of Texas online. Retrieved 2014-02-12.
  15. ↑ "MKT Depot and Rose Garden". Internet Archive. Lancaster Historical Society. Archived from the original on February 11, 2012. Retrieved 2014-02-12.
  16. ↑ "Lancaster Tap Railroad". The Handbook of Texas online. Retrieved 2014-02-12.
  17. ↑ "Clark, Randolph". The Handbook of Texas online. Retrieved 2014-02-12.
  18. ↑ "Randolph College". The Handbook of Texas online. Retrieved 2014-02-12.
  19. 1 2 "Comprehensive Plan". Historical Background. City of Lancaster, Texas. 2002-02-25. Retrieved 2014-02-12.
  20. ↑ National Weather Service - North Central Texas Weather Calendar -April Retrieved 17 September 2007.
  21. ↑ Verhovek, Sam (27 December 1994). "Disaster Leaves Imprint on Town". The New York Times. Retrieved 17 February 2014.
  22. ↑ Lancaster Chamber of Commerce - A Bit of Our History Retrieved 18 February 2014.
  23. ↑ National Civic League - All-America City: Past Winners Retrieved 17 September 2007.
  24. ↑ City of Lancaster - Press Release Retrieved 17 September 2007.
  25. ↑ Retrieved 3 April 2012.
  26. ↑ "Geographic Identifiers: 2010 Demographic Profile Data (G001): Lancaster city, Texas". U.S. Census Bureau, American Factfinder. Retrieved January 13, 2012.
  27. ↑ November 14, 2011 Minutes - Lancaster City Council Meeting. Retrieved 17 February 2014.
  28. ↑ "Comprehensive Plan". Natural Features. City of Lancaster, Texas. 2002-02-25. Retrieved 2014-02-12.
  29. ↑ "Monthly Averages for Lancaster, TX". The Weather Channel. Retrieved 2014-02-17.
  30. ↑ "Annual Estimates of the Resident Population for Incorporated Places: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 2014". Retrieved June 4, 2015.
  31. ↑ "Census of Population and Housing". Census.gov. Retrieved June 4, 2015.
  32. ↑ Lancaster (city), Texas QuickFacts - U.S. Census Bureau. Retrieved 20 February 2014.
  33. ↑ List of U.S. communities with African American majority populations – Wikipedia.
  34. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 "Community Information". City of Lancaster, Texas. Retrieved 2014-02-19.
  35. ↑ "ProLogis to build $35M Quaker Oats hub in Lancaster". Dallas Business Journal. 2012-11-16. Retrieved 2014-02-19.
  36. ↑ November 5, 2013 Work Session Agenda - Lancaster Planning & Zoning Commission. Retrieved 19 February 2014.
  37. ↑ "BMW opens regional distribution hub in Lancaster". WFAA-TV. 2014-01-27. Retrieved 2014-02-19.
  38. ↑ Mcvea, Denise (2 May 1996). "Storm Warning". Dallas Observer. Retrieved 17 February 2014.
  39. ↑ Lancaster City Charter - City of Lancaster, Texas. Retrieved 22 May 2008.
  40. ↑ "The Texas State Senate: Current Members of the Texas Senate". Texas Senate. Retrieved 2014-02-17.
  41. ↑ "Texas Legislature Online – Information for Rep. Helen Giddings". Texas Legislature Online. Retrieved 2014-02-17.
  42. ↑ "Lancaster ISD 2013 State of Schools Report" (PDF). Lancaster Independent School District. Retrieved 2014-02-25.
  43. ↑ "Dallas I.S.D. Development Overview" (PDF). Wilmer-Hutchins High School Attendance Zone. Dallas Independent School District. March 2012. Retrieved 2014-02-25.
  44. ↑ "Wilmer-Hutchins Elementary Attendance Zone" (PDF). 2013-14 Elementary School Attendance Zone Maps. Demographic Studies Department, Dallas Independent School District. Retrieved 2014-02-25.
  45. ↑ "Kennedy-Curry Middle Attendance Zone" (PDF). 2013-14 Middle School Attendance Zone Maps. Demographic Studies Department, Dallas Independent School District. Retrieved 2014-02-25.
  46. ↑ "Wilmer-Hutchins High Attendance Zone" (PDF). 2013-14 High School Attendance Zone Maps. Demographic Studies Department, Dallas Independent School District. Retrieved 2014-02-25.
  47. ↑ Schutze, Jim. "Hope Chest." Dallas Observer. July 21, 2005. 1. Retrieved on 22 August 2009.
  48. ↑ "Facts Briefs: Student Statistics" (PDF). Office of Institutional Research, Dallas County Community College District. Retrieved 2014-02-25.
  49. ↑ "About the Library". History of the Lancaster Veterans Memorial Library. City of Lancaster, Texas. Retrieved 2014-02-25.
  50. ↑ "Getting a Library Card". Lancaster Veterans Memorial Library. City of Lancaster, Texas. Retrieved 2014-02-25.
  51. ↑ "Friends of the Library". Lancaster Veterans Memorial Library. City of Lancaster, Texas. Retrieved 2014-02-25.
  52. ↑ "Contemplative Garden". Lancaster Veterans Memorial Library. City of Lancaster, Texas. Retrieved 2014-02-25.
  53. ↑ "Focus Daily News". Focus Daily News. Retrieved 18 February 2014.
  54. ↑ "Parks & Recreation". About the Parks & Recreation Department. Parks & Recreation Department, City of Lancaster, Texas. Retrieved 2014-03-05.
  55. ↑ "Parks Division". Parks & Recreation Department, City of Lancaster, Texas. Retrieved 2014-03-05.
  56. ↑ "Lancaster Community Park". Parks & Recreation Department, City of Lancaster, Texas. Retrieved 2014-03-05.
  57. ↑ "Lancaster City Park". Parks & Recreation Department, City of Lancaster, Texas. Retrieved 2014-03-05.
  58. ↑ "Cedardale Park & Complex". Parks & Recreation Department, City of Lancaster, Texas. Retrieved 2014-03-05.
  59. ↑ "Heritage Park". Parks & Recreation Department, City of Lancaster, Texas. Retrieved 2014-03-05.
  60. ↑ "Pleasant Run Hike & Bike Trail". Parks & Recreation Department, City of Lancaster, Texas. Retrieved 2014-03-05.
  61. ↑ "City of Lancaster 2007-2008 Annual Budget". City of Lancaster, Texas. Retrieved 2014-03-05.
  62. ↑ "Bear Creek Nature Park". Parks & Recreation Department, City of Lancaster, Texas. Retrieved 2014-03-05.
  63. ↑ "Tenmile Creek Preserve". Planning & Development Department, Dallas County, Texas. Retrieved 2014-03-05.
  64. ↑ "Recreation Center". About the Recreation Center. Parks & Recreation Department, City of Lancaster, Texas. Retrieved 2014-03-05.
  65. ↑ "New Life Center opens today". Focus Daily News. December 2008. Retrieved 2014-03-06.
  66. ↑ "Senior Life Center". About the Senior Life Center. Parks & Recreation Department, City of Lancaster, Texas. Retrieved 2014-03-05.
  67. ↑ "Country View Course Details". Country View Golf Course. Retrieved 2014-03-05.
  68. 1 2 3 "City of Lancaster Museums". City of Lancaster, Texas. Retrieved 2014-02-10.
  69. ↑ "Lancaster, Town of". Texas Historical Commission. Retrieved 2014-03-22.
  70. ↑ "Pleasant Run". Texas Historical Commission. Retrieved 2014-03-22.
  71. ↑ "Rawlins House, Captain R. A. (Rawlins Homestead)". Texas Historical Commission. Retrieved 2014-03-22.
  72. ↑ "Strain House, W. A.". Texas Historical Commission. Retrieved 2014-03-22.
  73. ↑ "Winniford House". Texas Historical Commission. Retrieved 2014-03-22.
  74. ↑ "Rocky Crest Museum receives historical marker". Focus Daily News. 2012-09-07. Retrieved 2014-03-22.
  75. ↑ "Edgewood Cemetery". Texas Historical Commission. Retrieved 2014-03-22.
  76. ↑ "First Presbyterian Church of Lancaster". Texas Historical Commission. Retrieved 2014-03-22.
  77. ↑ "First United Methodist Church of Lancaster". Texas Historical Commission. Retrieved 2014-03-22.
  78. ↑ "First Baptist Church of Lancaster". Texas Historical Commission. Retrieved 2014-03-22.
  79. ↑ "First Christian Church of Lancaster". Texas Historical Commission. Retrieved 2014-03-22.
  80. ↑ "St. Paul Freewill Baptist Church". Texas Historical Commission. Retrieved 2014-03-22.
  81. ↑ "Site of the Confederate Arms Factory". Texas Historical Commission. Retrieved 2014-03-22.
  82. ↑ "Head House, Former Site of". Texas Historical Commission. Retrieved 2014-03-22.
  83. ↑ Master Thoroughfare Plan (Comprehensive Plan). City of Lancaster, Texas. Retrieved 10 February 2014.
  84. ↑ "Lancaster Regional Airport Master Plan". City of Lancaster, Texas. Retrieved 2014-02-17.
  85. ↑ Airport information for KLNC – AirNav. Retrieved 17 February 2014.
  86. ↑ Public Transportation - Dallas County Community College District. Retrieved 17 February 2014.
  87. ↑ Johnson, Joshua (14 June 2013). "Lancaster hospital reopens, commits to excellence". Focus Daily News. Retrieved 17 February 2014.

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