Pahrump was originally inhabited by the Southern Paiute. It was slowly inhabited by settlers in the late 19th century. They reportedly chose the name for Pahrump after the original indigenous name Pah-Rimpi, or “Water Rock,” so named because of the abundant artesian wells in the valley. Because of the artesian wells, the new inhabitants of Pahrump Valley began a number of large ranch-style holdings, mostly over 1000 acres in size. On the ranches, alfalfa and cotton were grown, and livestock were raised.

Related:

• Chief Tecopa Cemetery
• Chief Tecopa (Grave and historic marker)