Preserving Midland's History

Two of Midland’s museums recently celebrated major milestones in conjunction with the community’s 150th birthday. The Museum of the Southwest and the Petroleum Museum each tell a part of Midland’s story as they honor the people, industries, and defining moments that shaped the city into what it is today.

This year, the Museum of the Southwest will celebrate 60 years since opening its doors. What began as an initiative of the Junior League of Midland has grown into a vibrant, multi-building campus that preserves and showcases Midland’s cultural and artistic heritage. Over the decades, the Museum has evolved into a dynamic space for art, history, science, education, and community engagement.

Credit: Museum of the Southwest

Housed in the historic Turner Mansion and grounds, the Museum features an art museum, children’s museum, and planetarium. In the Turner Art Museum rotating exhibits alongside its permanent collection. Visitors can explore a detailed timeline of Midland’s development, as well as the history of the Turner and Scharbauer families. These two families’ investments and leadership played a significant role in shaping the community. Preserving their stories and the broader story of Midland’s growth ensures that future generations understand the foundation upon which our city was built.

In the 15 years that Scharbauer Foundation has served the community, the Foundation has supported multiple projects at the Museum of the Southwest. Most recently, during the fall 2025 grant cycle, the Foundation contributed to the renovation of the Museum’s gift shop.

The Permian Basin Petroleum Museum recently celebrated its 50th anniversary. For five decades, the Petroleum Museum has highlighted the long and transformative history of the Permian Basin’s oil and gas industry. Through immersive exhibits and interactive displays, the Museum traces the story of energy in West Texas. Starting from early exploration at Santa Rita No. 1 to the technological advancements that continue to shape the industry today, the Petroleum Museum is a hands-on experience that tells our industry’s story well. 

Credit: Petroleum Museum

Beyond the history of the oil and gas industry, the Petroleum Museum illustrates the far-reaching impact of oil and gas on Midland’s economy, workforce, and identity. It connects visitors to the innovation, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit that define the region.

Scharbauer Foundation has been proud to assist the Petroleum Museum with grants including exterior lighting and signage improvements. Foundation grants have also supported STEAM-focused youth programming.

As Midland continues to grow and evolve, it is important to remember where we came from. The stories of our area’s first families, the discovery of oil, and the steady determination of those who built this community are all pivotal chapters in Midland’s history. The Museum of the Southwest and the Petroleum Museum play a critical role in preserving those stories—connecting our past to our present and inspiring the generations who will shape Midland’s future.