Pando was founded on 13 May 1788. It took its name from one of its first inhabitants who had moved there in 1730. It was the seat of the Guardia del Pando, a force against Portuguese advances. It had acquired the status of "Pueblo" (village) before the Independence of Uruguay.
According to the Act of Ley N� 759, on 11 March 1863 it held the status of "Villa" (town). On 5 August 1920, its status was elevated to "Ciudad" (city) by the Act of Ley N� 7.252. At the time, it was an industrial center and had a track for airplanes which became an airport in 1928. This airport was moved to Carrasco in 1948 and the Military Aeronautic School took its place
