Lockhart
Cultural District

The Lockhart Cultural District encompasses the nine-block Caldwell County Courthouse Historic District, a National Register-listed area containing 67 historic buildings centered on the 1894 Second Empire-style Caldwell County Courthouse.

The proposed district is anchored by six nonprofit arts organizations: Gaslight-Baker Theatre (a 1920 historic venue presenting a full theatrical season), Spellerberg Projects (contemporary art gallery and artist studios), Soundwaves Art Foundation (an international philanthropic art organization that has raised over $15 million for charity), KLKT 107.9 FM (community radio reaching 15,000+ listeners), Courthouse Nights (a free monthly concert series on the courthouse lawn), and Lockhart Initiative for Tourism (supporting cultural tourism initiatives districtwide). Additional galleries, including Commerce Gallery and Get Lucky Gallery, and arts media including the 78644 Podcast, contribute to a concentration of cultural programming in the district.

Lockhart’s existing reputation as the “Barbecue Capital of Texas” already draws visitors from 50+ miles away. Strong supporting amenities—including restaurants, bars, and vacation rentals in historic properties—are in place to serve cultural tourists. Located 30 miles south of Austin, Lockhart offers an authentic small-town setting where visitors can experience contemporary arts programming alongside Texas heritage.

Our coalition is working collaboratively to formalize the district structure, coordinate programming, and develop shared marketing strategies. Cultural District designation will provide the framework to promote Lockhart’s arts community, attract cultural tourists, and support the continued growth of our creative sector.

For more information or to get involved, please contact Marty Spellerberg via email at marty [at] spellerberg.org