County Origins

Midland County got its name from the railroad running halfway across Texas

Midland County was organized in 1885 and named for its location at the midpoint of the Texas and Pacific Railway between Fort Worth and El Paso.

Midland County History & Culture

The Texas and Pacific Railway reached this area in 1881, bringing early settlers. The county was carved out of Tom Green County in 1885. The city of Midland became the county seat. Before that, the land was open range used for sheep and cattle ranching.

The county sits on the Llano Estacado's southern edge at elevations between 2,550 and 2,900 feet. Annual rainfall averages only about 13 to 15 inches, making water a constant challenge. Early farmers and ranchers had to drill wells — and sometimes hit oil while looking for water.

Source to confirm: Handbook of Texas — Midland County

More Midland County notes

Property Tax Basics

Two offices handle your property taxes in Midland County

The appraisal district sets your property value; the tax office sends the bill and collects money — they are separate offices with different jobs.

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Homestead Exemption

Homestead exemption can lower your property tax bill in Midland

If your home is your main residence, you can apply once for a homestead exemption that reduces your taxable value and caps annual value increases at 10 percent.

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Senior Tax Exemption

Homeowners 65 and older get extra tax relief in Midland County

Residents 65 or older can claim a larger homestead exemption that may also freeze their school district tax bill at its current level.

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Appraisal Protest

You can challenge your property appraisal in Midland County

Every property owner has the right to protest if they think the Midland Central Appraisal District valued their property too high.

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