Amarillo Was Once the Helium Capital of the World

Gas was found in 1918 and oil in 1921. The Cliffside gas field had unusually high helium content, which prompted the U.S. government to build the Federal Helium Plant near Amarillo in 1928. Amarillo earned the informal title of Helium Capital of the World for decades.

Oil, gas, and agriculture remain important parts of the Amarillo economy today. Four U.S. highways once merged in the city: 60, 87, 287, and the historic Route 66, reflecting its role as a Panhandle crossroads. The Handbook of Texas follows Amarillo from its railroad beginnings through the oil, gas, and helium years.