Spearman is a rural community that rallies around local businesses
Despite its arid climate, Spearman began as a ranching community. Early pioneers settled in the region even though natural water sources were rare. Settlers started using windmills to pump water for their cattle and other livestock. Many of those windmills are now collected at J.B. Buchanan Windmill Park, one of the city’s most-visited attractions, and a few more windmills are scattered throughout the area.
Life is a bit different in Spearman today, but the city of around 3,000 people still has a country atmosphere. “We’re way up in the panhandle,” says Mandi Vargas, the director of the Hansford County Library. “We’re a small town that’s big on community and shopping local.” That community spirit can be seen in the town's annual events.
Ranch-style and Mediterranean Revival homes with sparse yards
Brick ranch-style homes sit throughout the area. There are also larger New Traditional properties and Mediterranean Revival-influenced houses, though these homes hit the market less often. The median sale price is around $150,000, well below the national median. Houses typically sell after about 90 days, longer than the national average of 50. Yards are sparse but commonly feature a small tree or a line of plants along the house. The city’s wide residential streets primarily lay in a grid-like pattern. Parking along the curb is a common practice.
Burgers, barbecue and clothing boutiques, plus a library thrift store
Most of the city’s restaurants sit along Texas State Highway 207 or Main Street, which is made of brick. The aptly named Brickstreet Grill serves burgers, pasta and steaks in a casual environment. Mur Mur’s Cafe has dine-in tables and a drive-through, and Salt and Light is known for its barbecue. The community has Lowe’s Market and DG Market locations, plus retail shops like Horse Creek Boutique, which sells women’s and men’s clothing. Vargas says the Hansford County Library takes donations of clothes and other items and sells them in an attached thrift store on Fridays, raising funds for library needs. “We get quite a bit of support that way,” Vargas says.
Spearman ISD, dual enrollment and a school choice voucher program
Students are served by Spearman Independent School District. They can attend Gus Birdwell Elementary School, which earns a B-plus Niche grade. Spearman Junior High School holds an A-minus score. Spearman High School offers dual credit classes through a partnership with Frank Phillips College. It receives a B-plus. Beginning in 2026, Texas’ school choice voucher program will send eligible families about $10,000 to put toward private school tuition. Perryton, about 26 miles away, has the closest private school options.
Vintage windmills are on display and the Lyric Cinema screens movies
J.B. Buchanan Windmill Park has more than 30 vintage windmills in its collection, including a 1915 model that still pumps water from a well. Rocket Slide Park lives up to its name with a red, white and blue play structure shaped like a missile. The park also has a jungle gym, a swing set, open fields and picnic tables. Palo Duro Skatepark is known for its challenging transitions between sections. The city swimming pool opens each summer and offers daily passes for $2.50.
The Stationmaster’s House Museum is inside a cottage formerly reserved for the city’s railroad stationmaster. It showcases equipment and artifacts from pioneer life. The Lyric Cinema, open since 1923, screens the latest Hollywood blockbusters.
Christmas on the Bricks brings Santa Claus to town
The area’s Heritage Days Celebration blends live music with a parade and food vendors. Christmas on the Bricks, held along Main Street each December, includes a golf cart decorating contest and parade as well as a visit from Santa Claus. “It’s always something special,” Vargas says.
Major highways are close, and Panhandle Transit offers rides
Drivers have access to Texas state highways 15 and 207. The city is close to 90 miles from Amarillo, including Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport. Panhandle Transit offers point-to-point transportation for Hansford County residents. Rides must be requested in advance. Ogletree General Hospital on the south end of town offers emergency medical services. Tornadoes can touch down in Hansford County, though they are typically EF0- or EF1-level storms.
