A significant piece of Alpine, Texas’s history, the Lockhart Clinic-Hospital, is at the heart of a new fundraising campaign organized by Mary Bell. This campaign aims to preserve the clinic-hospital, which was established post-World War II by Dr. William E. Lockhart Jr., a notable figure in both local healthcare and community service. As the clinic approaches its 80th anniversary on August 15, 2026, the Lockhart family is inviting the community and anyone connected to Dr. Lockhart’s legacy to help maintain and restore this historic building.
Dr. Lockhart, who served in the 30th Evacuation Hospital in New Guinea and the Philippines during World War II, envisioned a medical facility to serve the Alpine community in the Big Bend region of Texas. His dream was realized and has since become a beacon of medical care, community service, and now, historical preservation. The clinic not only served as a medical facility but has also housed the Lockhart Hacienda B&B for the past seven years, adding to its rich tapestry of community service.
The fundraiser, hosted on GoFundMe, seeks to raise $30,000 to support several key preservation activities. These include seeking a Texas Historical Marker, participating in the establishment of a Federal Historic Downtown District in Alpine, and restoring critical aspects of the building’s infrastructure. Planned enhancements include painting murals that depict the Lockhart legacy, repairing leaks in the metal roof, replacing outdated plumbing fixtures, and weatherizing the structure to protect against future climate impacts.
Additionally, the project will focus on preserving the building’s original woodwork and furniture, which includes doors made from wood sourced from Mexico during wartime economic constraints. The Lockhart family plans to undertake much of the labor themselves, bringing in professionals for specialized tasks as necessary.
As the Lockhart Clinic-Hospital nears its milestone anniversary, this fundraising effort is not just about maintaining a building but also about celebrating and preserving the legacy of a family that has dedicated over 50 years to serving the Alpine community. To date, the campaign has raised $920. Contributions can be made via the GoFundMe page: HelpPreserve the Historic Lockhart Clinic-Hospital.
The Lockhart family and the Alpine community look forward to continuing to share this important piece of their history with visitors, historians, and locals alike, ensuring it remains a vital part of the region’s heritage.
