Historical Marker

Frankel City

Historical marker location:
Andrews, Texas
( From Andrews, take U.S. 87 west about 12 miles to intersection of FM 181 and U.S. 87)
Marker installed: 1984
Marker size: 27" x 42"

In 1941 the Fullerton Oil Company of California struck oil near this site, and by 1945 more than 100 drilling rigs were in operation. The discovery brought great numbers of workers into the area, resulting in the establishment of the town of Fullerton.

Located approximately one mile north, Fullerton provided newcomers with two churches, two cafes, two filling stations, a grocery store, delicatessen, beauty shop, and Andrews telephone exchange. Buses transported children to and from school in Andrews (16 miles SE). By the end of World War II, the boom town also boasted supply stores, oil field service companies, welding shops, and an electric plant.

Fullerton's name was changed to Frankel City when the U.S. post office was established in 1948. At one time the post office served as many as 500 area families. By 1976, however, most of the oil had been taken from the ground, and workers in the field were laid off or transferred to other jobs. The town was abandoned as the post office and other businesses closed.

The old Prairie Schooner Cafe, moved to this site from its original location, is all that is left of Frankel City. The ghost town, however, remains an important part of West Texas history. (1984)

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.

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Andrews County, located in the western part of Texas, has a rich and diverse history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Apache and Comanche, who relied on the region's natural resources for their sustenance. In the mid-19th century, European settlers began arriving in the area that would become Andrews County. The region was part of the Texas Republic and later the state of Texas. The main economic activities at this time were farming, ranching, and oil production.

Andrews County was officially established in 1876 and was named after Richard Andrews, the first man to die in the Texas Revolution. The discovery of oil in the Permian Basin in the early 1920s transformed Andrews County and brought about significant growth and prosperity. Oil companies flocked to the area, drilling numerous wells and establishing a booming oil industry. This led to a population boom as people from all over flocked to Andrews County in search of work and opportunities.

Throughout the years, Andrews County has continued to be heavily influenced by the oil industry. The county has seen periods of economic boom and bust as oil prices fluctuated, but oil remains a major industry in the region. In recent years, there has also been a growing focus on renewable energy, including wind power, with the establishment of several wind farms in the area.

Today, Andrews County is known for its diverse economy, blending agriculture, oil, and renewable energy industries. It remains an important part of the Permian Basin, contributing to Texas' status as one of the leading oil-producing states in the country.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Andrews County, Texas.

  • 1800s: The area that is now Andrews County was home to various Native American tribes, including the Comanche and Apache.
  • 1875: The Texas legislature formed Andrews County from parts of Bexar County, and it was named after Richard Andrews, the first man to die in the Texas Revolution.
  • Late 1800s: The county witnessed its first significant European settlement, with ranchers and farmers beginning to establish homesteads.
  • Early 1900s: The discovery of oil in the Permian Basin sparked a period of growth and economic development in Andrews County.
  • 1929: Andrews County's first drilling rig, belonging to the Texon Oil and Land Company, began producing oil, leading to an oil boom in the region.
  • 1938: Andrews County was struck by a powerful tornado that caused significant damage to the town of Andrews, resulting in several fatalities and injuries.
  • Late 1900s: Oil and gas production continued to be the primary driver of the county's economy, with several major companies operating in the area.
  • 1997: The county's first hazardous waste storage and disposal facility, the Andrews County LLRW Disposal Facility, began operations, bringing both jobs and controversy.
  • Present: Andrews County remains a hub for oil and gas activities, with ongoing efforts to attract diversification in industries while preserving its natural resources.