County of ward

History & Founding

Located in West Texas, this county occupies a significant portion of the Permian Basin, a region synonymous with oil and gas production. Established in 1876 from Pecos County, its name honors Confederate States Army General Felix Ward. Ward, a native of Virginia, served with distinction and was highly regarded, leading to the county’s namesake. Prior to European settlement, the area was inhabited by Comanche and Apache tribes. Early settlers were drawn by the promise of ranching and farming, though the harsh environment presented significant challenges. A fascinating historical anecdote recounts the near-disappearance of a herd of cattle in the 1880s, lost during a particularly severe dust storm that blanketed the land for days. The recovery of the herd, largely through the determination of local ranchers, became a legendary tale illustrating the resilience of the early settlers and their connection to the land. The county played a vital role in the expansion of Texas’s agricultural and later, its petroleum industries, contributing significantly to the state’s economic growth.

Geography & Landscape

The county’s geography is characterized by a vast, relatively flat landscape dominated by desert scrub and grasslands. Situated within the arid West Texas region, the land gently slopes towards the Pecos River, which forms its southern border. Elevations range from approximately 2,300 to 3,500 feet above sea level. While no significant mountain ranges exist within the county, the surrounding terrain provides a sense of expansive openness. The climate is typically hot and dry, with temperatures soaring in the summer months and mild winters. Rainfall is sparse, averaging around 12 inches annually. The landscape is punctuated by occasional playas, shallow depressions that collect rainwater and provide habitat for wildlife. The lack of surface water necessitates reliance on groundwater resources, a factor that has shaped the county's development.

Economy & Communities

The primary communities within the county are Monahans, the county seat, and the smaller towns of Goldsmith, Lamesa, Pleasant Valley, and Pyote. The economy is heavily reliant on the oil and gas industry, with numerous companies involved in exploration, production, and refining. Agriculture remains important, with cotton, sorghum, and wheat being the main crops grown. While the area is predominantly rural, the presence of the petroleum industry has brought a degree of economic diversification. Notable employers include energy companies, agricultural businesses, and the West Texas Rehabilitation Center, a significant provider of healthcare services. The character of the area is defined by its strong sense of community, a connection to the land, and a resilient spirit forged by generations of ranchers and oil workers.

Points of Interest

Points of interest include the Monahans Sandhills State Park, a unique landscape of towering sand dunes offering recreational opportunities such as sandboarding and hiking. The Ward County Historical Museum in Monahans showcases the county’s rich heritage through exhibits and artifacts. The Permian Basin Petroleum Museum in nearby Midland provides a broader perspective on the region’s oil and gas history. The county hosts annual events such as the Monahans Chamber of Commerce Rodeo and the West Texas Fair and Livestock Show. The county holds the distinction of being the site of the first commercially viable oil well drilled in the Permian Basin, marking a pivotal moment in the development of Texas’s energy resources. The vast, open skies and dark nights also make it a popular destination for stargazing.