Region: Big Bend Country
Midland was established in the late 1800s as a water stop for the railroad.
Farming and ranching were the main sources of income until the discovery of oil
in the 1920s. The area, known as the Permian Basin, became the headquarters for
a vast petroleum industry. Today, Midland remains active in the oil and gas
business, but diversification efforts are going strong. Manufacturing,
industrial services, educational and medical facilities are all important
aspects of the local economy. Former President George W. and Laura Bush claim
Midland as home and continue to have close ties there.
Midland is approximately midway between Fort Worth and El Paso on I-20. Rail
service is supplied by the Union Pacific Railroad. Midland International
Airport, approximately halfway between Odessa and Midland, is the ninth largest
airport in Texas.
From community theater, historic buildings and museums to RockHounds AA
Baseball, find it all in Midland.