Historical Marker

Malone-Manuel House

Marker installed: 2005
Marker size: 18" x 28"

Malone-Manuel House. Frank R. Malone came to Lampasas in the early 1880s as the city became a commercial center and resort town. In 1885, as a cashier for First National Bank, he proposed and helped found the Texas Bankers Association, which held its first meeting that year in Lampasas. Around that time, he and his five Ann built this home. In 1888, the Malones sold the property to Wm. Ginnuth and moved to Dallas. Local businessman and civic leader John N. Manuel purchased the home in 1891. The Manuel family owned the property until 1972. The house’s Queen Anne features are unusual and include an octagonal tower with projecting wings, as well as crestline detailing, dentils and hood moldings. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 2005

As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.

Queen Anne (architectural style) houses residential buildings
Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
The state of Texas was once an independent country known as the Republic of Texas. It gained independence from Mexico in 1836 and was a separate nation until it was annexed by the United States in 1845.
Texas random facts
Lampasas County, located in central Texas, has a rich history that predates the arrival of European settlers. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Lipan Apache and Comanche. In the 1830s, as Anglo-American settlers began to move into Texas, conflicts with these tribes escalated.

In 1852, Lampasas County was officially established, named after the Lampasas River that runs through the area. The county quickly became a prominent agricultural region, with cotton being the primary crop. The arrival of the Texas and Land Company railroad in 1882 further stimulated the local economy, as it facilitated trade and transportation in the area.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Lampasas County also experienced economic growth due to the discovery of mineral resources. Manganese and zinc mining industries played a significant role in the county's development. Additionally, the city of Lampasas became a popular health resort destination, thanks to the therapeutic value of the local natural springs.

Throughout the years, Lampasas County has faced its fair share of challenges. The region went through difficult times during the Great Depression, with the decline of the agricultural industry. However, the county managed to bounce back and diversify its economy, embracing tourism and other industries. Today, Lampasas County remains a vibrant community with a blend of historical charm and modern development.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Lampasas County, Texas.

  • 1854 - Lampasas County is founded and named after the Lampasas River.
  • 1872 - The town of Lampasas becomes the county seat.
  • 1882 - The Gulf, Colorado and Santa Fe Railway is completed through the county.
  • 1885 - The first oil well in central Texas is drilled in Lampasas County.
  • 1922 - The Hancock Springs Hotel, a popular health resort, is built.
  • 1949 - The Fort Hood military reservation is established, impacting the county's economy.
  • 1960s - The construction of the Highland Lakes dams brings tourism and recreation to the area.
  • 1990s - The county experiences population growth and increased development.