BROWNFIELD

Brownfield, Texas, located in the flat expanse of West Texas, boasts a rich history rooted in agriculture and oil. Established in 1920 and named after the Brownfield ranching family, the town quickly became a significant grain producer on the South Plains. By the 1940s, Brownfield was a leading grain center, with agriculture dominating its economy. This changed in the 1950s with the rise of oil production, which began in 1941, adding another dimension to the town's identity.

While agriculture and oil played crucial roles, Brownfield has more recently gained recognition as the "Grape Capital of Texas," embracing the wine industry as a new source of economic growth and community revitalization. The Farmhouse winery, in particular, has become a popular gathering spot, drawing visitors and contributing to the town's renewed vibrancy.

Brownfield's history is preserved and celebrated at the Terry County Heritage Museum, housed in the former residence of A.M. Brownfield himself. The museum showcases the area's diverse heritage, from its Native American roots to the ranchers and railroaders who shaped its development. Another notable landmark is the Brownfield Municipal Power Plant, built in 1923, a testament to the town's early commitment to infrastructure. And for a bit of trivia, Brownfield is also the birthplace of the popular card game Skip-Bo, adding a unique claim to fame to this West Texas town.

LA MESA

La Mesa, Texas, situated on the high plains of the Llano Estacado, traces its roots back to 1903. The town, whose name translates to "the table" in Spanish, was founded amidst a rivalry with a nearby settlement called Chicago. La Mesa eventually won the title of county seat and absorbed its rival, solidifying its position as the central hub of Dawson County.

Early growth was fueled by agriculture, particularly cotton farming, and later supplemented by the discovery of oil. This led to a population boom, peaking in the 1960s. Today, La Mesa remains a small but resilient community, with its economy still tied to agriculture and oil, though facing the challenges of declining population and water resources common to many West Texas towns.

Despite these challenges, La Mesa retains a strong sense of history, evident in its well-preserved downtown and the Dawson County Courthouse. The town also boasts a notable landmark in the Preston E. Smith prison unit, named after a former Texas governor. While La Mesa may not be a bustling metropolis, its history and its people contribute to the unique character of the Texas plains.

LEVELAND

Levelland, Texas, owes its name to the flat landscape ("level land") of the Llano Estacado where it sits. Founded in 1921, it quickly became the county seat of Hockley County, surpassing the earlier settlement of Hockley City. The arrival of the Santa Fe Railroad in 1925 solidified its position as a regional center. 

Levelland's economy has historically been driven by agriculture, particularly cotton farming. The city is a major player in the global cotton industry, with about 25% of the world's cotton grown in the surrounding area. This agricultural foundation was bolstered in the 1950s by the discovery of oil, leading to a population boom and the establishment of related industries like refining and natural gas processing. 

Today, Levelland maintains a diverse economy. While agriculture and energy remain vital, the city has also attracted investments in alternative energy, including wind, solar, and biofuels. Its location and infrastructure make it a prime spot for these growing sectors. Levelland is also working to expand its "value-added" agriculture, focusing on processing and manufacturing to enhance the value of local agricultural products. 

In addition to its economic strengths, Levelland is home to South Plains College, a two-year community college that contributes to the educational and cultural life of the region.

The city also boasts the South Plains Museum, which preserves the history of the area. Despite the challenges facing many rural communities, Levelland continues to build on its strong foundation, embracing both its history and its potential for future growth.