The Bush Family Home State Historic Site is a modest residence in Midland, Texas, and holds a remarkable legacy. Originally built in 1939 by Mildred Etheridge, the house has undergone numerous transformations and seen a diverse range of occupants before becoming a symbol of American history, according to site manager Troy Gray.
The house's journey to prominence began when George H.W. Bush and Barbara Bush purchased it in 1951. This was their second Midland home, and they resided there until 1955. In subsequent years, the property was used as a rental until 2001, when the Permian Basin Board of Realtors acquired it. This acquisition marked the start of a five-year restoration process, meticulously returning the home to its 1950s condition based on photographs and Barbara Bush’s recollections. On April 11, 2006, the grand opening of the George W. Bush Boyhood Home Foundation saw the attendance of Laura Bush, George H.W., and Barbara Bush.
"The restoration was quite a challenge due to the modifications made over the years," said Troy Gray. "But we were determined to bring it back to its original state to honor the Bush family's history here."
In 2023, the Texas Historical Commission took over operations and renamed the house the Bush Family Home State Historic Site to celebrate the achievements of all Bush family members. Today, the site is staffed by a dedicated team, including two educators, an office manager, a maintenance person, and Gray himself.
The home has seen significant structural changes since its construction. In the 1940s, a former owner transformed the attached garage into a living room with a bay window and added a sunroom. During their time in the house, the Bushes remodeled the bathroom, adding popular plastic tiles. Subsequent owners made further modifications, including adding another bathroom, covering the front porch, and installing a carport. The 2001 restoration reverted these changes, bringing the house back to its mid-century roots.
Under the Texas Historical Commission's management, the site has expanded its educational and community programs.
"We've revamped our school tours to include croquet in the backyard and STEAM activities," Gray said. "Students also tour the house and participate in a scavenger hunt."
Two youth programs have also been introduced: the Youth Advisory Council and the Junior Docent Program. In collaboration with the City of Midland, the former allows teens to engage with city officials and participate in service projects. At the same time, the latter helps youth develop public speaking skills and guide tours.
"These programs offer valuable experiences and help with college applications and scholarships," Gray said.
Additionally, the site offers a bus tour around Midland, highlighting locations significant to the Bush family, and an online series discussing topics like the Roy Rogers Riders Rules. The Third Thursday Reading program continues to engage children with stories, crafts, and games related to the featured book of the month.
Upcoming events include Robin’s Children’s Health Fair on September 14 and the Worldwide Day of Play on Sept. 28, featuring 1950s games and a telephone book race. October will bring Texas Archaeology Month activities and a pumpkin walk.
Looking ahead, the site will expand with a larger gift shop and an educational and exhibit building.
"We aim to show even more of the Bushes' impact on West Texas, the state, and the nation," Gray said "A playroom with 1950s toys and dress-up clothes is also in the works."
The Bush Family Home's historical significance resonates deeply with the community.
"This home boasts two presidents, two governors, a First Lady, and another nearby First Lady," Gray said. "Midland played a crucial role in their lives, and there's a sense of pride in knowing this history was made right here."
Gray's favorite aspect of the home?
"Visitors love the 1949 Hoffman TV, the same model the Bushes received as a gift, and the 1956 GE refrigerator from Laura Bush’s mother. But for me, it's the stories visitors share about their own experiences with the Bushes and the nostalgia the home evokes."
The Bush Family Home State Historic Site continues to be a place of learning, remembrance, and community engagement, with exciting plans for the future to preserve and celebrate its rich history.