Patillo Higgins A geologist who believed that oil was under Spindletop Hill near Beaumont because it was a salt dome.

Wildcatter Person who drills wells hoping to find oil in areas not known to be oil wells. Columbus Marion “Dad” Joiner Mr. Cox and Matilda

Salt Dome A mushroom-shaped or plug-shaped body of rock made of salt, creating a hill. Oil is often found near salt domes.

Spindletop Site of the first, “gusher” in Texas and the largest oil reserve the world at that time. Began the, “age of oil” in Texas.

Geologist A scientist who studies the origin, history, and structure of the earth.

Refinery A chemical plant that processes, “crude oil” into a usable form.

Toxic Waste Poisonous by-product from chemical production.

This law provided for state highways, which in turn helped our state develop motels, roadside diners, gas stations, and other business. Federal Aid Road Act

Boomtown A town that experiences a major increase in population due to sudden economic growth.