Under Texas Skies

Beneath the vast, unyielding Texas sky lies a story of grit, gushers, and grandeur—a tale of how oil, cattle, and the audacious dreams of larger-than-life figures forged a state unlike any other. Under Texas Skies: Oil, Ranches, and Dreams that Shaped a State takes readers on a sweeping journey through Texas history, from the explosive birth of the modern petroleum industry at Spindletop to the fracking boom and beyond. This is not just a chronicle of black gold; it’s a vibrant tapestry of ranches sprawling across millions of acres, visionary philanthropists building cities from scratch, and a cowboy culture that defied stereotypes to fuel a global economic titan.

With 22 meticulously researched chapters, Under Texas Skies uncovers the improbable friendships, family dynasties, and technological leaps that defined Texas. Discover how oil taxes—starting with a modest 1905 levy—built a state without income tax, funding highways, Neiman Marcus glamour, and a war-winning effort in World War II with pipelines and synthetic rubber. Texas also played a crucial role during World War I, as the nation relied on its oil to power military vehicles and support the war effort. From the million-acre ranches of Texas to the coastal wells rising from Gulf waves, this book captures the raw energy of a land where dreams were as big as the horizon.

Author Biography

Julie Dewees Sparks retired from British Petroleum in 2016 after a distinguished career in the energy industry in Houston. A proud alumna of LSU with a BS in International Finance and the University of Houston with an MBA in Economics, Julie’s academic achievements laid the foundation for her impressive career. Since 2018, Julie brings her passion for history to life as a docent at the prestigious Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens, a jewel in the crown of the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. Her commitment to preserving and promoting Texas heritage doesn’t stop there. Julie lends her expertise to the Advisory Board of The Texas Center at Schreiner University in Kerrville, a newly minted institution dedicated to fostering appreciation for the Lone Star State’s storied past and vibrant present. From 2018 to 2021, she also contributed her insights as a board member of the Texas Historical Foundation. She lives in Houston.