The Midland County Historical Society, founded in 1956 by the Friends of the Midland County Library, has long been a beacon of historical preservation and community involvement.
Officially chartered by the state of Texas in November 1957, the Society has dedicated itself to "the discovery, collection, preservation, and publication of historical records and data relating to Midland County," according to the society’s Director Jim Collett. Led for many years by President Nancy McKinley, one of the original founding members, the Society has thrived as a volunteer organization funded by dues, donations, and grants.
Since its inception, the Society has supported the operation of the Midland County Historical Museum, which has moved through various locations before settling at its current home at 200 N. Main St., in the former Woolworth building. The museum's roots trace back to 1932, when county employees each donated one dollar to start a museum.
"The museum is not just a collection of artifacts; it's a time portal that allows visitors to experience the past in a very real and personal way," Collett said.
The Society has played a crucial role in recognizing and preserving historic sites throughout the county. They have acquired and placed numerous state historical markers working with county officials, including those at the Pliska Blacksmith Shop, First National Bank, the Yucca Theatre, Fairview Cemetery, and the Brown-Dorsey Home.
One of the Society's early major accomplishments was the acquisition and restoration of the Brown-Dorsey Home in 1969. Furnished with period furniture from the early 1900s, many pieces originally belonged to the Brown family. The home was reopened for tours in 1976 during the Bicentennial Celebration. The Society also hosted various special events at the home, from ice cream socials to historic plays.
Another significant achievement was the publication of the "Pioneer History of Midland" for the county's centennial in 1985. This work, focusing on the years 1880 to 1926, contained rare photographs and stories from pioneer families.
Following a period of inactivity, the Society was reactivated in 2012 with the help of Pat McDaniel, Director of the Haley Memorial Library and History Center. A new constitution and bylaws were adopted, and the Society's nonprofit status was restored. Since then, the Society has completed numerous projects, including the relocation of the museum to its current, more spacious facility.
In 2019, the museum reopened with a new exhibit on Midland during World War II. Other notable exhibits include "The Show Goes On," celebrating the 75-year history of Midland Community Theatre, and "Paleo Midland," exploring the area's prehistory.
"Our reopening in 2019 was a milestone. The community's response has been overwhelmingly positive, and we've seen a renewed interest in Midland's history," said Collett.
The Society remains active in the community, hosting organizational meetings, special tours, and history camps for young people. The museum operates with a dedicated team of volunteer docents, ensuring it remains open to the public from Thursday to Saturday each week.
Looking ahead, the Society is working with MuseumArts to develop a master exhibit that spans the full scope of Midland’s history. They are also focused on restoring the exterior of the Brown-Dorsey Home, including the return of the restored decorative trim and the construction of a historically accurate fence.
"Any society that does not know its own history is impoverished by that lack of knowledge," said Collett. "Our work helps fuel curiosity, knowledge, and empathy, which are essential for a vibrant community."
Since reopening in its new location, the museum has become a vital part of downtown Midland, attracting both visitors and residents. The Society continues to receive requests for information and digital images from their archives, enriching the community's connection to its past.