Gaines County, Texas
Gaines County is classic West Texas, sitting right along the New Mexico border. The landscape is flat, dry, and wide open, with seemingly endless plains stretching toward the horizon. Oil plays a major role here, and pump jacks dot the countryside as a familiar part of the scenery.
Seminole is both the largest town and the county seat. The county takes its name from the Seminole people, who have a historical connection to the region. But there’s more to Gaines County than oil fields and dusty plains.
The Gaines County Museum offers a glimpse into the area’s past, including the history and culture of the Comanche people. Agriculture remains important as well, with cotton and peanut fields spreading across the countryside. Between its oil wells, working farms, and open skies, Gaines County captures the rugged character of West Texas.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Gaines County |
| County Seat | Seminole |
| Population | Approximately 22,000 |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Seminole, Seagraves |
| Interstates and Highways | U.S. Highway 62, U.S. Highway 180, State Highway 214 |
| FIPS Code | 48-165 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 1,503 square miles (1,502 sq mi land, 1 sq mi water) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Yoakum County (North), Terry County (North), Dawson County (East), Martin County (Southeast), Andrews County (South), Lea County, New Mexico (West) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CST) |
| State | Texas |
| Coordinates | 32°45’N, 102°38’W |
| Etymology | Named after James Gaines, a signer of the Texas Declaration of Independence |
| Major Landmarks | Gaines County Golf Course, Seminole City Park, Seagraves Museum |
