Texas Porch

Oil and Gas History

Oil Changed Jim Hogg County in 1921

The first commercial oil well in Jim Hogg County came in on April 17, 1921, and set off an economic shift that still shapes the county today.

Jim Hogg County History & Culture

Before oil, Jim Hogg County ran on cattle. Ranching dominated the land from the time Anglo and Tejano settlers moved in during the 1800s. Then on April 17, 1921, a well called Killam No. 3 struck oil at 1,461 feet and produced 100 barrels a day. New residents and businesses followed quickly. By the early 1990s, cumulative oil production from the county had reached about 106 million barrels since 1922.

Ranching did not disappear. Oil money layered on top of it. Today the county's economy still mixes cattle, oil and gas, and some row crops. If you buy land with potential mineral value, the Texas Railroad Commission (RRC) tracks active wells and permits in the county. You can search by county on the RRC website to see current production activity.

Source to confirm: Handbook of Texas — Jim Hogg County

More Jim Hogg County notes

Property Tax

Property Tax: Two Offices, One County

Jim Hogg County splits property tax work between two offices, and knowing which does what saves you a trip.

Read note ->

Homestead Exemption

Homestead Exemption: Apply at the Appraisal District

If you own and live in your home in Jim Hogg County, you may qualify for a homestead exemption that lowers your tax bill.

Read note ->

Groundwater

Your Water Well Falls Under the Brush Country District

Jim Hogg County has no public water in rural areas, so most properties rely on private wells regulated by the Brush Country Groundwater Conservation District.

Read note ->

Hunting

Deer Hunting: South Zone Rules Apply Here

Jim Hogg County is in the Texas South Zone for deer hunting, with a season that runs into January and a bag limit of five deer.

Read note ->