Historical Marker

Ector County's First Dry Hole

Historical marker location:
Odessa, Texas
( West side of Street 917 N. Grandview, Odessa (marker is facing East -small strip center))
Marker installed: 1965
Marker size: 18" x 28"

Drilled in 1924 near this site. Geologists were forecasting oil and urgently-needed potash, but Pennsylvania experts (using a chilled shop core drill) gave up the well at 900 feet, on "Red Bed" Rock--A substance new to them. Loss in this and a second drilling was $150.000.

In 1927 a well was brought in just west of Odessa, and in a few years oil was found within yards of the first dry hole. By 1964 Ector County had 9,600 oil and 22 gas wells. However, the U.S. average is 8 dry holes out of 9 wells such as that drilled here in 1924

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.

oil/petroleum topics
The cattle industry played a significant role in the development of Texas, with cowboys driving cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas during the late 1800s and early 1900s.
Texas random facts
Ector County, Texas, has a rich history that dates back to prehistoric times. The area was once inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Comanche, Apache, and Tigua tribes. Spanish explorers arrived in the region in the 16th century, but it wasn't until the mid-19th century that permanent settlements began to form in the area.

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.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey 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.