Because the area featured a flat plain with a constant source of water, it was long frequented by the Jicarilla Apache. The village's modern name of Pilar was adopted after its post office was incorporated in 1918.
The area's unique geography, featuring an open plain with a reliable source of water, made it a long-standing gathering place for the Jicarilla Apache. The village's name was subsequently changed to Pilar after its post office was officially recognized in 1918.