MarfaOutdoor Escape Game & Treasure Hunt

From Railroad Stop to County Seat

Marfa began in 1883 as a water stop and freight headquarters for the Galveston, Harrisburg and San Antonio Railway. The name 'Marfa' is said to come from the character Marfa Strogoff in Jules Verne's 1876 novel Michael Strogoff, a suggestion reportedly made by a railroad executive's wife. By 1885, Marfa had replaced Fort Davis as the Presidio County seat. A three-story Renaissance Revival courthouse was constructed in 1885-1886. The town grew, with a population of 900 by 1900 and 3,553 by 1920, gaining literary clubs, fraternal organizations, telephone service, and a bank.

Military Presence and Artistic Transformation

In the early 20th century, Marfa played a role in national defense. During the Mexican Revolution in 1911, cavalry troops were sent to Marfa, and biplanes flew reconnaissance missions from canvas hangars. This military presence expanded with Camp Albert, renamed Camp Marfa and then Fort D. A. Russell. During World War II, the government stationed Chemical Warfare Brigades in Marfa and built a prisoner-of-war camp nearby, increasing the town's population to 5,000 in 1945. Both military installations closed the following year, ending a significant economic and cultural influence. Marfa faced economic challenges after the war and a drought that impacted agriculture. The town's next transformation began in 1971 when minimalist artist Donald Judd moved to Marfa, seeking a quieter environment away from the New York art scene. He purchased several buildings, including the former Fort D. A. Russell, and began creating large-scale, permanent art installations, ultimately founding the Chinati Foundation.

• —Presidio County Courthouse — This Second Empire style courthouse, built in 1886, has a pink stucco exterior and Italianate detailing. Lady Justice stands atop its central dome.
• —Marfa Public Library — This modern building serves as a central point for community life and hosts local events and exhibits.
• —Hotel Paisano — Opened in 1930, this historic hotel has Spanish Revival architecture. It served as the headquarters for the cast and crew of the 1955 film Giant.
• —Ballroom Marfa — Housed in a converted dancehall from 1927, this non-profit contemporary art space was established in 2003. It showcases visual arts, film, music, and performance.
• —Judd Foundation, The Block — This was Donald Judd's residence and studio. Tours provide insight into his minimalist aesthetic and his impact on Marfa's art scene.
• —Donald Judd's Residence/Studio (101 Spring St) — This property illustrates Judd's vision and how he integrated art and architecture into the Marfa landscape. The exterior is visible from the street.

The best times to visit Marfa are during spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). Temperatures are suitable for outdoor activities and exploring art installations. Many art events, such as the Chinati Foundation's open house in October, occur during these seasons.

Summer (May to September) can be hot, with average daily highs above 83°F, peaking at 89°F in June. August generally sees the highest rainfall. Winter (November to February) brings cooler temperatures, with January being the coldest month with an average low of 27°F. Many businesses, including restaurants and galleries, often close on Mondays and Tuesdays, so weekend visits are generally more active.

Getting to Marfa typically involves driving. The closest major commercial airports are El Paso International Airport (ELP), about 200 miles west, and Midland International Air and Space Port (MAF), about 160 miles east, both roughly a three-hour drive away. Marfa Municipal Airport (MRF) serves private aircraft. Amtrak stops in Alpine, about 30 minutes from Marfa, but direct transportation from the station to Marfa is not readily available.

Once in Marfa, a car is the most useful mode of transportation, as there is no public transit. Rental cars can be scarce, especially on busy weekends, so booking in advance is recommended. Marfa is on Central Time. Many local businesses observe closures on Mondays and Tuesdays, and hours can be unpredictable, so it is advisable to check directly with establishments.