Ciudad Madero's history dates back to the early 1800's, then known as Paso de Doņa Cecilia - the spot where a tenacious woman - Cecilia Villareal - set up a launch to transport people, cargo and animals across the mighty Panuco River.
Doņa Cecilia's house - La Casa de la Teja - became a resting spot for weary travelers and eventually grew into an inn. In 1829, an important battle between Mexican soldiers and an invading army from the King of Spain took place around the house.
El Paso de Doņa Cecilia was surrounded by jungle and teemed with wild animals, growing slowly during the rest of the 19th Century. The Arbol Grande refinery was established in 1921 and the town's name was changed to Villa Cecilia.
In 1930, Villa Cecilia was recognized as a city and its name was changed to Ciudad Madero in honor of the Mexican Revolution hero, Francisco I. Madero.
Petroleum refining is the principal economic activity of the city. Mining and fishing activities also contribute to the local economy. Hotels and other visitor attractions are growing along Playa Miramar.