County of andrews

History & Founding

Located in the Permian Basin of West Texas, this county holds a rich history and a landscape shaped by oil and agriculture. Established in 1933 from portions of Ector and Gaines counties, it was named in honor of Andrew Jackson, the seventh President of the United States. The timing of its creation directly reflects the burgeoning oil boom that was transforming the region. Prior to the discovery of oil, the area was sparsely populated, primarily utilized for ranching and farming. The initial oil strikes dramatically altered the county’s trajectory, attracting a wave of settlers and significantly boosting its economic growth. A fascinating anecdote from early county history involves a local rancher who initially dismissed the oil prospectors as “crazy men digging holes in the ground,” only to later become a successful oil producer himself, illustrating the rapid and transformative nature of the oil boom. The county’s establishment played a key role in the overall development of the Permian Basin, contributing significantly to Texas’s position as a leading energy producer.

Geography & Landscape

The county occupies a geographically significant area within West Texas, bordering New Mexico. The terrain is predominantly flat, characterized by vast plains and rolling hills, typical of the High Plains region. Drainage is primarily through intermittent streams and draws, eventually flowing into the Colorado River basin. There are no significant lakes or rivers within the county’s boundaries, and mountainous terrain is absent. The climate is arid and semi-arid, with hot summers and cold winters, experiencing significant temperature fluctuations. Annual rainfall is low, averaging around 14 inches. The landscape is visually defined by expansive grasslands and the occasional oil well, a constant reminder of the county’s primary industry. The soil is generally well-suited for agriculture, though water scarcity presents a challenge.

Economy & Communities

Andrews is the only incorporated city within the county and serves as its county seat and the primary population center. The economy is overwhelmingly dominated by the oil and gas industry, with numerous companies involved in exploration, production, and refining. Agriculture remains a smaller, but important, sector, with producers focusing on cotton, sorghum, and wheat. Notable employers include Occidental Petroleum, Chevron, and various service companies supporting the energy sector. The character of the area is primarily rural, with a strong sense of community and a work ethic deeply rooted in the agricultural and energy industries. While the oil boom brought rapid growth, the county retains a distinct West Texas feel, characterized by open spaces and a connection to the land.

Points of Interest

Several points of interest reflect the county’s unique history and landscape. The Andrews County Historical Museum offers a glimpse into the area’s past, showcasing artifacts and exhibits related to ranching, oil exploration, and early settlement. Andrews County Park provides recreational opportunities with walking trails and picnic areas. The annual Andrews County Fair celebrates the agricultural heritage of the region, featuring livestock shows, carnival rides, and local crafts. A unique record for the county is its consistently high concentration of oil wells per square mile, a testament to the intensity of oil exploration activity. The community also takes pride in its resilient spirit, shaped by the challenges and opportunities presented by the ever-changing energy landscape.