Breckenridge, Texas

This "Mural Capitol of Texas" is the county seat of Stephens County. Breckenridge was established in 1876, but the great 1920s oil boom exploded and changed Breckenridge from 1,500 to 30,000 in 12 months, with hundreds of oil derricks sprouting within the city limits making it rich with oil history.

Original brick streets still welcome visitors to the historic downtown area built in the 1920s. Remnant of this boom time, original red brick and native sandstone buildings line Walker Street and play host to a variety of antique and eclectic gift shops. The Stephens County Courthouse, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is located in the heart of downtown and is one of 28 historical markers in the county. A Texas Main Street City since 1997, Breckenridge has also qualified for National Main Street.

Presently, the economy is based on ranching, oil and gas, manufacturing, and industries. Home of Texas State Technical College, West Texas, Breckenridge Campus. They offer a variety of technical and education courses, including distance learning through Midwestern State University.

Sportsmen find the area prime for hunting white-tailed deer, feral hogs, wild turkey, quail, mourning dove, as well as excellent fishing in local lakes. Also for the outdoor enthusiast, other sports opportunities including water skiing, boating, jet skiing, sailing, camping, hiking, sailing, swimming and scuba diving. For the bird watcher, the area offers extensive selections of bird species.