The Oil Boom, Preserved: Inside Midland’s Petroleum Museum

In Midland, oil and gas are obviously a main topic of discussion in the Permian Basin.

Since the region is largely known for such industries, it is only natural that a collection of stories, archives, and artifacts has been accumulated.

The Petroleum Museum isn’t just a tribute to oil; it’s a living archive of the region’s grit, ingenuity, and evolution.

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How It All Began

The idea for the museum sparked in 1965 when George T. Abell, a local oilman, discussed building it over coffee at the Scharbauer Hotel.

By 1975, the museum was officially dedicated, with President Gerald Ford in attendance, a rare presidential nod to West Texas industry.

Dominique Garcia

The Petroleum Museum Over the Years

Since its debut, the museum has grown into a sprawling, interactive experience. The “Oil Patch” exhibit, added in 1976, showcases antique drilling rigs and equipment.

The Chaparral Gallery, opened in 1981, houses a legendary collection of race cars. A $1.8 million renovation in 2016 modernized petroleum exhibits, and the recent $6 million STEAM Education Center added a cutting-edge learning space and a 5,000 sq. ft. patio.

Inside, 25,000 square feet of exhibit space walks visitors through geology, refining, and the global impact of oil.

The Transportation Pavilion tells the story from formation to delivery, while the Mineral Gallery features rare specimens.

The Archives Center and Library hold thousands of documents, oral histories, and photographs, open weekdays for researchers and curious minds.

Educating the Public

Education is at the heart of the museum’s mission. Programs cover geology, robotics, environmental science, and local history.

Summer camps, Family Science Nights, and virtual outreach through the Crossroads Initiative keep students engaged year-round.

Explore the Petroleum Museum and discover the story that shaped the Permian Basin, a story that continues to fuel its future, whether you're a local or a visitor.