Native Americans were the first to grow crops on West Texas soil, and were soon followed by pioneers who saw the area as a land of opportunity. Everything from corn, cantaloupe, and cotton were tried with success as farmers resiliently adapted to their environment.
By the start of the 20th century, cotton became the foundation of the area’s agricultural economy and boomed in the 1920s. Cattle ranching and poultry production were also important factors, and sorghum production soon followed.
Corn became even more important as cattle ranching expanded in the area. Corn became a major livestock feed crop, although its production began to decline after World War II. During this time farmers began to rely less on animal power, and more on machinery to work their crops.
The area also has a long history of petroleum extraction, and entire towns grew up around economic possibilities. Railroad lines were developed to connect the region with other areas of the state and the U.S.