History of Midland, Texas: From Railroad Town to Oil Boom City
Midland, Texas, located in the heart of West Texas, has a rich and dynamic history that has shaped it into the thriving city it is today. Known primarily for its role in the oil industry, Midland’s origins go back to the days of the railroads. Over the years, it has grown from a small railroad settlement to a critical hub for energy, business, and politics, playing a significant role in the development of the Permian Basin and the broader Texas economy.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the history of Midland, Texas, from its founding in the late 1800s, through its transformation during the oil boom, to its modern-day role as one of the most important cities in the energy industry. Whether you’re a history buff or a resident curious about the origins of your city, this deep dive into Midland’s past will provide valuable insights into the events and people that shaped this West Texas city.
1. The Founding of Midland: A Railroad Town
The history of Midland begins with the expansion of the Texas and Pacific Railway in the late 1800s. In 1881, the railroad extended westward through Texas, creating new settlements along the way. Midland, originally known as Midway, was founded as a halfway point between Fort Worth and El Paso. The town’s name was later changed to Midland to avoid confusion with another Texas town named Midway.
Midland’s Role as a Transportation Hub
As a railroad town, Midland quickly became an essential transportation and supply hub for the surrounding area. The town served as a stop for passengers, freight, and supplies, supporting the growth of nearby ranches and farms. By 1885, Midland had become the county seat of Midland County, solidifying its importance in the region.
The arrival of the railroad sparked the early growth of Midland’s economy, and the town’s population steadily increased as more settlers arrived to take advantage of the opportunities that the railroad provided. Midland’s early economy was primarily based on agriculture, with ranching and farming playing key roles in the town’s development.
2. The Early Years: Growth and Development
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Midland continued to grow, albeit slowly. The town’s early economy was closely tied to the ranching industry, which thrived in the surrounding open plains. Cattle ranching was a significant source of income, and Midland became known for its cattle drives and auctions. Sheep herding also played a role in the local economy.
Midland’s First Boom
The first boom in Midland’s history was driven by its role as a central hub for agriculture and transportation. Farmers and ranchers in the area relied on Midland’s infrastructure, and the town gradually grew in size and importance. By the early 1900s, Midland had schools, churches, and businesses that catered to the growing population.
However, it was the discovery of oil in the nearby Permian Basin that would change Midland’s fortunes forever.
3. The Discovery of Oil: A Turning Point
Midland’s transformation from a small ranching town to an oil boom city began in the early 1920s, when geologists discovered that the Permian Basin, which stretches across West Texas and southeastern New Mexico, contained vast reserves of oil and natural gas. This discovery set the stage for Midland to become one of the most important oil cities in the United States.
The Permian Basin: One of the World’s Largest Oil Fields
The Permian Basin is one of the largest and most productive oil fields in the world. Its discovery in the 1920s led to a surge of interest from oil companies and investors, and Midland quickly became a central hub for the emerging oil industry. The first commercial oil well in the area, known as the Santa Rita No. 1, was drilled in 1923. This well sparked a major oil boom that would shape the future of Midland and the surrounding region.
With the discovery of oil, drilling operations and oil production began to dominate Midland’s economy. Oil companies set up offices in the city, and Midland became a key player in the national and global energy markets. The rapid influx of workers and businesses led to a population boom, and the city’s infrastructure expanded to accommodate the growing number of residents.
4. Midland in the Oil Boom Years
The oil boom brought immense wealth to Midland, and the city experienced rapid growth throughout the 1920s and 1930s. Midland’s downtown area expanded with the construction of new buildings, hotels, and businesses, and the city became known as the headquarters for many oil companies operating in the Permian Basin.
Oil Wealth and Economic Expansion
As the oil industry flourished, Midland saw the rise of prominent oil families and business leaders who played a significant role in the city’s development. Some of the most well-known oil companies, including ConocoPhillips, Chevron, and ExxonMobil, established a presence in Midland, and the city became known as the “Tall City” due to its growing skyline.
The influx of wealth from the oil industry also led to investments in education, culture, and infrastructure. Midland’s residents enjoyed a higher standard of living, and the city became a cultural hub for West Texas.
5. The Impact of the Great Depression
Like much of the United States, Midland was affected by the Great Depression in the 1930s. While the oil industry continued to be a significant part of the economy, the city faced challenges as oil prices dropped and the national economy struggled.
Resilience Through Oil and Ranching
Despite the economic challenges, Midland’s reliance on both oil production and agriculture helped it weather the Great Depression better than many other parts of the country. The city’s oil industry, while slowed, did not collapse, and ranching continued to provide a stable source of income for many residents.
Midland’s population growth slowed during the Depression, but the city remained an important regional hub. By the late 1930s, as the nation began to recover economically, Midland was poised for another period of growth, especially with the renewed demand for oil during World War II.
6. Midland’s Role in World War II
World War II had a significant impact on Midland, as the city became a key location for military training and support for the war effort. The Midland Army Air Field was established during the war, serving as a major training base for bombardiers in the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Midland Army Air Field: Training Bombardiers
The Midland Army Air Field, located just outside the city, trained thousands of bombardiers who would go on to serve in World War II. The base became one of the largest training facilities for bombardiers in the country, and its presence brought a surge of military personnel and their families to Midland. This influx contributed to the city’s growth and helped diversify the local economy.
The airfield remained operational after the war and was eventually transformed into Midland International Air & Space Port, which continues to serve the region today.
7. Post-War Boom and Growth
After World War II, Midland experienced another period of rapid growth, driven by the continued expansion of the oil industry. The post-war years saw an increase in oil production, new drilling technologies, and rising demand for petroleum products, all of which contributed to Midland’s prosperity.
Economic and Population Growth
The 1950s and 1960s were marked by a period of sustained economic and population growth in Midland. The city’s population grew rapidly as more people moved to Midland to work in the oil industry. The wealth generated by the industry led to significant investments in infrastructure, education, and culture.
Midland became known for its wealthy oil families, and the city’s prominence grew as it became a hub for both national and international energy companies. The construction of skyscrapers in the downtown area earned Midland its nickname, “Tall City,” and the city’s skyline became a symbol of its success.
8. The Bush Family and Midland’s Political Influence
One of the most notable aspects of Midland’s history is its connection to the Bush family. Midland was home to both George H.W. Bush and George W. Bush before they rose to national prominence. The Bush family moved to Midland in the 1950s, where George H.W. Bush worked in the oil industry before launching his political career.
Midland’s Political Legacy
Midland’s connection to the Bush family brought national attention to the city, especially when George W. Bush became the 43rd President of the United States. The George W. Bush Childhood Home in Midland is now a museum and a popular attraction, drawing visitors interested in learning more about the family’s time in the city.
Midland’s political influence extends beyond the Bush family, as the city has long been a stronghold of conservative politics. Many prominent political figures and business leaders have roots in Midland, making it an important player in both Texas and national politics.
9. Economic Challenges: The Oil Bust of the 1980s
While Midland enjoyed periods of prosperity during the oil booms, the city has also faced economic challenges, particularly during the oil bust of the 1980s. In the early 1980s, the price of oil collapsed, leading to a sharp decline in oil production and a devastating impact on Midland’s economy.
The Impact of the Oil Bust
The oil bust led to significant job losses, business closures, and a decrease in population as workers left the city in search of opportunities elsewhere. Midland’s downtown area, once a symbol of the city’s success, was hit hard by the economic downturn, with many buildings sitting vacant for years.
Despite these challenges, Midland’s economy eventually recovered, thanks in part to new technologies that made oil extraction more efficient and the discovery of additional oil reserves in the Permian Basin.
10. The Modern Midland: A Hub for Oil and Energy
Today, Midland is once again thriving, thanks to the resurgence of the oil industry and the development of new drilling technologies, such as hydraulic fracturing (fracking) and horizontal drilling. These innovations have unlocked previously inaccessible oil reserves in the Permian Basin, leading to a new wave of growth and prosperity for Midland.
Midland’s Role in the Energy Industry Today
Midland is now considered one of the most important cities in the global energy industry. The city serves as the headquarters for many oil companies, energy services firms, and related industries. The resurgence of the oil industry has also led to significant investments in infrastructure, housing, and business development, making Midland a hub for both energy and commerce.
While the city’s economy is still heavily tied to the oil industry, Midland has worked to diversify its economy in recent years, with growth in areas such as education, healthcare, and technology.
Conclusion: A City Shaped by Oil and Resilience
The history of Midland, Texas is a story of transformation, growth, and resilience. From its beginnings as a small railroad town to its rise as a global oil hub, Midland has continuously adapted to the changing economic landscape. The discovery of oil in the Permian Basin shaped the city’s identity and fueled its growth, but it has also faced significant challenges, including the oil busts of the 1980s.
Today, Midland remains a critical player in the energy industry, while also working to diversify its economy and enhance the quality of life for its residents. Whether you’re drawn to its political history, its role in the oil boom, or its vibrant community, Midland’s rich history continues to influence the city’s future and its place on the world stage.