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Physical Features: South Plains, numerous playas, drains to Yellow House Draw; loam, sandy loam soils.

Economy: Extensive oil, gas production and services; manufacturing; varied agribusiness.

History: Comanches displaced Apaches in the early 1700s. Large ranches of 1880s brought few residents. Homesteaders arrived after 1900. County created in 1876 from Bexar, Young districts; organized in 1921. Named for the Republic of Texas secretary of war Gen. G.W. Hockley.

Race/Ethnicity (in percent): Anglo, 46.6; Black, 4.1; Hispanic, 48.1; Asian, 0.6; Other, 1.4; Two or more races, 1.4.

Vital Statistics, annual: Births, 335; deaths, 224; marriages, 154; divorces, 70.

Recreation: Early Settlers’ Day in July; Marigolds Arts, Crafts Festival in November.

Minerals: Oil, gas, stone; one of leading oil counties with more than 1 billion barrels produced.

Agriculture: Cotton, grain sorghum; cattle, hogs raised; substantial irrigation. Market value $78.7 million.

LEVELLAND (13,957) county seat; oil, cotton, cattle center; government/services; hospital; South Plains College; Hot Burrito & Bluegrass Music Festival in July.

Other towns include: Anton (1,127); Opdyke West (177); Pep (30); Ropesville (436); Smyer (483); Sundown (1,395); Whitharral (158).

The Hockley County Courthouse in Levelland. Photo by Robert Plocheck.