Midland, Texas was founded as a midway point on the Texas and Pacific Railroad between El Paso and Fort Worth in 1881. In addition to producing one-fifth of the nation's petroleum and natural gas output, its major claim to fame is being the hometown of the former First Lady Laura Bush. Along with being abundant in natural resources, Midland is also rich in historical treasures. Don’t miss out on these wonderful historical landmarks and sites:

The George W. Bush Childhood Home

While not his actual birthplace, the house in which George W. Bush was raised still stands as a testament to the American home. Approximately 1400 square feet, the house has remained mostly unchanged since it was last inhabited in 1956. The home next door was also purchased and has since been transformed into the administrative portion of the historical site that includes clerical offices, a temporary education center, and gift shop. Plans are in the works to acquire two additional neighborhood homes to create a new 4,000 square foot visitor's center and exhibit gallery. Make sure to check their website regularly for upcoming events and updates on the expansion of the site!

The Brown-Dorsey Medallion Home

The oldest surviving residence in Midland and last example of Victorian architecture in the city is at the Brown-Dorsey home. The home was built by prominent Midland businessman Z. Taylor Brown, and features Late Victorian design elements that were fashioned during the turn of the century. His daughter Sarah and son-in-law Hugh B. Dorsey also spent their married lives in the home and raised seven children inside the house. When Sarah died in 1968, the home was bought by the Midland Historical Society, restored, and turned into a museum for the public.

Fred and Juliette Turner House

Listed on the National Registry for Historic Sites in the city of Midland is the eclectically built former home of Fred and Juliette Turner. Constructed in 1937, the home drew design inspiration from Art Deco, Tudor, and Mediterranean styls and exemplifies the grand scale of affluence during this time period. However, the mansion also holds a darker past. In 1963, Juliette was tragically murdered inside the home during a robbery, leaving the town in a state of horror. Her husband Fred died six months after his wife's death due to natural causes. Afterward, their beneficiaries gifted the home to the Museum of the Southwest for use during exhibitions, activities, and programs.

These are just some of the historical sites near our apartments in Midland. For information on more historical treasures in the area or how you can join our community, please contact us to arrange a private tour.