Our Story
For over a century, one family has put people first — from a West Texas hardware store to communities across West Texas, one handshake and one guest at a time.
It started with a Model T and a promise.
In 1911, Edward Franklin Sewell didn’t just sell Model T's; he introduced a new way of life to Texans. From his hardware store in Arlington, he built trust by helping families take their first steps into the future of transportation. During the Great Depression, E.F. moved his family to West Texas, where his sons, Carl and Woody, opened Crane Motor Company in 1930. In 1935, they purchased the Ford dealership in Odessa — a location that remains a cornerstone of Team Sewell to this day.
Over the past century, Sewell has grown from a single hardware store into a family of companies across West Texas, serving guests with brands including Ford, Lincoln, Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, Cadillac, BMW, Kia, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram. But at our core, we remain rooted in the values that started it all: putting people first, creating lasting relationships, and building stronger communities.
Today, under fourth-generation leadership, we continue to honor our legacy while pushing forward with innovation and care. For us, success isn’t just measured by sales — it’s defined by the trust we earn and the impact we make in the places we call home.
Built one generation at a time
More than a century of milestones
From a single hardware store in Arlington to a family of companies across two states, every year has added a chapter to the Sewell story.
The Arlington hardware store
Edward Franklin Sewell expands his Arlington hardware store into a hub for early automotive sales, assembling and selling Ford Model T's and paving the way for a legacy of innovation and excellence in the industry.
A bold leap in Odessa
E.F. Sewell's sons, Carl Sr. and Woody Sewell, take a bold leap, acquiring a bankrupt Ford dealership in Odessa, Texas. On opening day, they make history selling half of their 22-vehicle inventory and laying the foundation for a lasting legacy.
Persevering through the war years
WWII halts new vehicle production until 1946. As the nation shifts its focus to the war effort, automobile manufacturing comes to a standstill. Despite the challenges, the company perseveres, pivoting to pre-owned vehicle sales and dedicated service — keeping the business alive and continuing to support the community through resilience and adaptability.
A new home on 8th Street
Sewell Ford Lincoln Mercury marks a new chapter, relocating to a state-of-the-art facility on 8th Street in Odessa, Texas. This move reflects a commitment to innovation, enhanced customer experience, and the continued growth of the Sewell legacy in West Texas.
Standing together
Through one of the most challenging economic recessions in history, the West Texas community and Sewell Ford stand together, demonstrating resilience, perseverance, and unwavering support for one another. Despite economic hardships, their commitment to each other strengthens, reinforcing the deep-rooted values of trust, service, and community that define the Sewell legacy.
The first Big Serve
As West Texas faces another economic recession, Team Sewell responds with a spirit of generosity, launching the first of many annual Big Serve events — transforming the traditional company Christmas party into a day of giving back. Sewell reinforces its commitment to the community, bringing team members together to support those in need and create a lasting impact.
Expanding to Andrews
In July 2010, Sewell expanded its presence into Andrews, Texas, with the acquisition of the Andrews Chevrolet GMC dealership. Committed to excellence, the dealership proudly serves the local community and surrounding areas, continuing Sewell's tradition of quality and service.
E.F. Outfitters is born
E.F. Outfitters opened as a heartfelt nod to E.F. Sewell, who kicked off our story over a century ago by assembling Model T Fords in his hardware store. In true Sewell fashion, we started humbly too — inside a cubicle at Sewell Ford. This modern hardware store brings high-quality apparel, accessories, and gear to the mix, honoring our roots while helping our customers gear up for life's many adventures.
BMW of the Permian Basin
Sewell expands its presence in Midland with the acquisition of BMW of the Permian Basin off Highway 191. Bringing over 100 years of excellence, Sewell is proud to serve the Midland community while upholding the prestige of the BMW brand.
A new home at Parks Legado
Now proudly located at our new Ford campus in Parks Legado, Sewell Ford, Sewell Lincoln, and E.F. Outfitters continue to honor Edward Franklin Sewell's legacy. It traces its roots to a humble beginnings. Today, it stands as a testament to history, craftsmanship, and a spirit of adventure — all brought together under one roof.
Cadillac joins the family
Sewell is proud to grow its presence in Midland with the acquisition of the Cadillac Buick GMC dealership on Wall Street. We are thrilled to bring the iconic Cadillac name into the Sewell lineup, continuing our tradition of offering exceptional vehicles and service.
Exclusive Cadillac dealer
Sewell becomes the exclusive Cadillac dealer for the Permian Basin by purchasing the Odessa Cadillac dealership and consolidating with the Midland store into one premier location. This move strengthens our commitment to delivering exceptional service and luxury vehicles across West Texas.
Four new ways to serve
Sewell announces four new ways to serve West Texans' automotive needs and acquires the Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM store in Andrews, Texas. Sewell now serves West Texans with eleven automotive brands.
Sewell Government Fleet Solutions
Sewell Government Fleet Solutions is born to support the unique needs of government agencies with reliable, tailored fleet solutions. With a focus on seamless procurement and comprehensive fleet management, we're proud to partner with government organizations to keep their operations moving efficiently and effectively.
Sewell Kia opens
Sewell Kia opened its doors in November 2025, marking Sewell's expansion into the Kia brand for the first time. The dealership launched with a fully digital, paperless sales and service experience, loaners for life, and pickup and delivery as standard Sewell commitments — quickly becoming a cornerstone for guests across the Permian Basin.
The New Sewell Midland Campus
Sewell opens a new campus in Midland, featuring Cadillac, Buick, GMC, and BMW dealerships, and a full-service restaurant, Millie Leigh's — a milestone in Sewell's 110+ year legacy of service.
Four values that have never changed
Integrity
Doing what is right, even when no one is watching. Our word is our handshake.
Character
Leading with humility, honesty, and heart in every interaction, every day.
Excellence
Setting a higher standard in everything we do, from the showroom to the service lane.
Teamwork
Winning together as one family — where coworkers become family and guests become friends.
Rooted in Texas — and now beyond
Odessa, TX
Home of the original Ford dealership. Where the Sewell story took root and still runs deep today.
Midland, TX
BMW, Cadillac, Buick, GMC, and Kia. Serving the heart of the Permian Basin with the full Sewell experience.
Andrews, TX
Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, and Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM, serving Andrews and the surrounding communities.
Come build a better tomorrow with us
A place where people love to work and love to do business. Interested in joining our team? We'd love to meet you.
Apply Today