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City of Killeen 
General Facts about the Area
The romantic legendary West is very much a part of Killeen’s history and of its character today. But only a part….
On May 15, 1882, a Gulf, Colorado and Santa Fe Train chugged into a stretch of land in West Bell County, then populated with only a smattering of buildings. The arrival of that train marked the birth of Killeen. Named for a railroad official, Frank P. Killeen, the young town did not take long to put down roots and begin to grow. In a few short years, Killeen had become one of the state’s leading shipping centers for cotton, wool, and other produce. Outlaws Sam Bass, John Wesley Hardin, and Jesse James all traveled the road just south of Killeen that is now known simply as Texas Highway 195. In September 1942, Camp Hood was located just next door to the growing Killeen, and the huge Army post took in much of the agricultural lands, which fed the city’s economy. A new economic base established, as Camp Hood, eventually became Fort Hood and grew into the largest military post in the free world.
Points of Interest
FESTIVAL OF FLAGS
The festival of Flags is an annual celebration of the many nationalities and cultural heritages represented by the residents of the Killeen/Fort Hood area. Begun in 1968, and sponsored by the Greater Killeen Chamber of Commerce, the Festival has developed numerous events that promise fun and entertainment for the whole family: Parade, Arts and Crafts, Sidewalk Art Show, Military Static Display, International Food Fair, Barbecue Cook Off, Cobbler Cook Off, Children’s Activities, Little League Softball Tournament, Volksmarch, Street Dance, and an All City Choir Performance!
Date: Memorial Day Weekend
Contact (for details): The Greater Killeen Chamber of Commerce.
254-526-9551
FOURTH OF JULY
Each year, Fort Hood invites the public to experience many of the vehicles, weapons, and training exercises used in today’s Army. On the fourth of July, Fort Hood displays acres of aviation and fighting vehicles. For this one day, you can crawl in the driver’s seat and pretend you are flying helicopters and driving tanks. To further delight you, aviation and horse platoon performances, music, food, and tank rides are available. To end the day’s events, view an exciting display in the Grand Style of the U.S. Army!
Date: Fourth of July
Contact: III Corps Public Affairs Office
254-287-8506
Starving Artist Show
Conder Park sets the mood for a lovely Sunday afternoon. Stroll among the trees enjoying the works of many Texas artist and craftsmen. Sponsored by the Killeen Civic Art Guild, this annual event showcases works priced at $100 or less! Discover unique, native pieces you’ll enjoy for years to come. Free Admission!
Date: First Sunday in October
Contact: Killeen Community Center
Neighborhood Information
Shopping
Harker Heights and Killeen are served by the Killeen Mall, located at 2100 S. W.S. Young Drive and HWY 190, which offers Sears, Dillard’s and JC Penney’s as anchor stores, as well as a host of boutiques and specialty shops. There are also several strip shopping centers throughout the areas.
Transportation
Arrow Trailways of Texas and Kerrville Bus Line serve the greater Fort Hood area with bus service at all times of the day. The “Hop” offers local service throughout the Killen/Harker Heights/Belton/Temple areas.
Hospitals
There are several hospitals serving the community: Metroplex Hospital, Rollins Brook Hospital, Scott & White Hospital, and Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center.
Airport
The Killeen-Fort Hood Regional Airport is located at 8101 Clear Creek Road in Killeen, and offers commuter air transportation to the DFW International Airport through two airlines, ASA and American Eagle. Recently, Continental Airlines added commuter services to the Houston Airport.
To view Killeen's official website, click on the following link:
www.killeentexas.net
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