History

Pahrump is less than 60 miles from Las Vegas ~ nestled between Mount Charleston and the Spring Mountains.

Originally inhabited by the Shoshone, American settlers discovered Pahrump in the late 19th century. These American settlers chose the name the valley Pahrump after from the original indigenous name Pah-Rimpi, or "Water Rock" because of the abundant artesian wells in the valley.

Because of these artesian wells, the new inhabitants of Pahrump Valley began a number of large ranch-style holdings, mostly over 1000 acres in size. On these ranches, alfalfa, cotton, and livestock were raised.

Until the 1960s, Pahrump had no telephone service and there were no paved roads in or out of the Pahrump Valley. However, as Las Vegas grew, real estate speculation became more popular in the area, which led to increased interest in Pahrump. This led to the introduction of telephone service and the construction of a paved highway, from Las Vegas to Pahrump, during the late 1960s. Later, this road was extended from Pahrump northward to US 95, near Amargosa Valley. A second paved road was introduced that went from Pahrump to neighboring Shoshone, California, which provided a link to the Death Valley area, as well as a shorter route to those wishing to travel to Los Angeles or other areas in California. In 1974, Pahrump's first high school was constructed. 

Since the late 1970s, Pahrump has grown almost exponentially, increasing from about 2000 residents in 1980 to almost 25,000 in 2000. Pahrump is an archetypal example of an exurb. Almost all significant agriculture has ceased in the valley, and the surface aquifers have been filled up over the years.