Oil Industry

Before 1901 – oil was used to stop leaks on boats, lubricate machines or kerosene oil for lamps. But, some men knew that Texas had a lot more oil just waiting to be discovered. Oil Changes Texas

Anthony Lucas, an engineer, struck oil. The largest oil reserve ever discovered up in Patillo Higgins believed there was oil on Spindletop Hill. He started an oil business and hired Anthony Lucas to find oil.

The gusher at Spindletop sets off the Texas oil boom, forever changing the future of the Lone Star State. Spindletop inspires further exploration. Soon wells around the state are producing massive amounts of oil, making Texas the world’s number-one oil producer. Besides creating a new economy for Texas, oil has had far- reaching effects on industry, technology, culture, and education, and transportation.

MAJOR OIL AND NATURAL GAS DISCOVERIES, 1900–1940

NECESSITY, TEXAS Spindletop, 1902 Boomtown- towns that experience a major increase in population due to sudden economic growth. By the 1920s East Texas was overrun with oil derricks everywhere.

Boomtowns Crowded, noisy Crime, disease, lack of drinking water No water or sewer system which led to disease such as dysentery or typhoid Wasn’t all bad, boomtowns led to increased jobs Landowners were able to sale their lands

#8 and 9 Wildcatter- men who drill wells hoping to find oil in areas not known for oil. For example, in 1930 C.M. Joiner found the largest oil reserve in Rusk County, Texas Refinery- a plant where oil was purified and made into other products such as gasoline

C.M. “Dad” Joiner #10 and 11 - In 1930, he struck oil in East Texas near Henderson. With the discovery and development of the East Texas Oil Field -- the largest petroleum deposit on earth at the time.

Texas Oil Effects the World 13. So much oil was being discovered that the Texas Railroad Commission had to step in the regulate how much oil could be pumped. This was to stop the price of oil dropping too low. It could cause a depression. 12. Texas was the world’s largest oil producer. The slightest change in oil production could cause the price of oil to go up or down. Texas oil helped the automobile industry, effected shipping costs, travel, and other innovations.

Section 3 – Effects of the Oil Boom CauseEffects 14. After Spindletop in 1901, oil had a major influence in many regions of Texas. Houston and Midland will become the headquarters of many oil companies in the world. 15. Chemists found ways to remove chemicals from petroleum. a.Many household items were developed (plastics) b.During WWII, explosives and synthetic rubber for tires will be developed. 16. The oil boom also led to improvements in transportation and travel in Texas. a.Oil made the development of cars easier b.Cars lead to better roads made from asphalt (highways) c.Highways lead to businesses along the roads d.Even airplanes will develop after WWI

Petrochemicals: By-products of Petroleum (oil) Petrochemical – chemicals made from oil or natural gas Ethylene – used to ripen fruits Propylene- used as anti-freeze in cars Plastics, tires, inks, and fertilizers

Big Names from Oil and Aviation Howard Hughes – Houston manufaturer, made his money when he helped developed and manufacture the rolling drill bit. He will make his name in aviation (planes). Amon G. Carter- Fort Worth executive and newspaper owner, he helped make Ft. Worth a major aircraft production city. He will also be known for his philanthropy (giving money for the cultural and educational endeavors in Fort Worth.)