Ector County Courthouse
Historical marker location:Seat of justice for Ector, created out of Tom Green County in 1887 and organized in 1891.
The 1891 courthouse was frame, the remodelled town sanitarium, moved to the present square. Its first floor had rooms for the sheriff, court clerks and Odessa school, while the county and district courtroom was upstairs. As the only public building in town, it provided space for dances. socials and church services. Picnics and baptizings were held at the windmill and tank on the northwest corner of the square. As townsite restriction banned the sale of liquor, Odessa was usually quiet. However, fights broke out when settlers rushed to the courthouse to file claims on public lands.
In 1904 a 2-story red stone courthouse was built just east of the early one. On the lawn in 1906 the Christian church was organized. At that time Odessa ha 400 people and little hope for growth, because of drouths and their effects on cattle raising.
After oil discoveries of 1926 stimulated Ector's development, a 3-story cement building was erected in 1938. The fourth structure was dedicated April 12, 1964, by governor John Connally
As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.
The Johnson Space Center, located in Houston, played a crucial role in the development of the U.S. space program. It was here that NASA trained its astronauts and mission control teams, and it continues to be an important center for space research and exploration today.
The county's history took a major turn in 1881 when the Texas and Pacific Railway reached the area. This led to the establishment of the town of Odessa, which would later become the county seat. The area experienced a boom in population and economic growth, thanks to the development of the railroad and the discovery of oil in the early 20th century.
Ector County played a significant role in the oil boom of West Texas. The discovery of oil in the Permian Basin in the late 1920s transformed the region into one of the largest oil-producing areas in the United States. This led to a rapid increase in population and the development of oil-related industries. The county's economy became heavily reliant on oil, with many residents working in the oil fields or related industries.
In recent years, Ector County has continued to see growth and development. The region has diversified its economy to include industries such as healthcare, education, and manufacturing. As the county seat, Odessa has become a vibrant city with a thriving arts and cultural scene. Today, Ector County is known for its rich history, oil heritage, and its contributions to the energy industry.
Ector County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Ector County, Texas.
- 1880 - Ector County is established and named after Confederate General Mathew Ector.
- 1889 - Odessa, the county seat, is founded as a water stop and trading post for the Texas and Pacific Railway.
- 1927 - The discovery of oil in the Permian Basin leads to a population boom in Ector County.
- 1935 - Odessa becomes a city and experiences rapid growth due to the oil industry.
- 1951 - The University of Texas Permian Basin is founded in Odessa.
- 1970 - Ector County's population surpasses 100,000 residents.