Longhorn Caverns
Burnet, Burnet County, Texas
Marker Inscription
Rich in history and folklore. A young geologic formation, only a few million years old. Bones of elephant, bison, bear, deer, other animals have been found here. When white men came to area in 1840's, Indians knew the caverns; Rangers once found and rescued a kidnapped girl from Indians in "Council Room." During Civil War (1861-1865) gunpowder was manufactured and stored here. In 1870's outlaws, including the Sam Bass gang, sometimes lived in the cavern. Site of night club in 1920's. Has many unique features. Was opened to public in 1932.
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Long before it became a tourist attraction, this Hill Country cavern sheltered a remarkable cast of characters. Native peoples knew it well, Texas Rangers reportedly rescued a captive here, and Confederates manufactured gunpowder in its chambers during the Civil War. Later, outlaws said to include the Sam Bass gang hid in its depths, and it even housed a nightclub before opening to the public in 1932.
Why it matters
Few places compress so much of the Texas frontier story—Indigenous history, Ranger lore, Civil War industry, and outlaw legend—into a single underground site.
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Related people
- · Sam Bass
Related events
- · Civil War
Themes & tags
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