Our History

With more than 110 years of excellence, CITGO is proud of our unique history as we look toward another century of success.

1910

Founded

Henry L. Doherty creates the Cities Service Company

Refinery
Construction

1926

Lemont

1935

Corpus Christi

1944

Lake Charles

1940

Boston's Sign

The iconic Cities Service (now CITGO) sign was erected in Kenmore Square in Boston.

1943

The Big Inch

Cities Service completed construction of "the Big Inch" - the biggest, longest pipeline to date - which served to help supply petroleum products to the war effort

CITGO Brand
Introduced

Cities Service unveiled its new marketing brand, retaining the first syllable of the heritage company and adding "GO" to imply power, energy and progressiveness.

1983

CITGO Petroleum Corporation created as standalone refining, marketing and transportation company registered in the state of Delaware: purchased by the Southland Company, operators of the 7-Eleven chain of convenience stores.

1986

CITGO & MDA

Since 1986, the CITGO community has raised over $280 million for the Muscular Dystrophy Association through events like tournaments, walkathons, and auctions—supporting families affected by neuromuscular disease.

1987

TeamCITGO was established to support community initiatives across the CITGO operational footprint. Volunteers contribute to projects aimed at improving quality of life in local communities.