The Cable Tool Rig
Historical marker location:Equipment that replaced the spring pole drilling method used in America's earlier oil fields. The Cable Tool Rig used a bit suspended on a steel drilling cable. The bit is dropped in the hole and the impact breaks up the formation. The broken pieces are removed by a bail. This method made possible the deeper penetration so necessary in the southwest.
The Cable Tool Rig was introduced in Texas in 1866. (some use of Cable Tools had been made around 1840 in the north.) Texas gave the southwestern oil industry the first lease, the first oil pipe line, the first wooden and iron storage tanks, the first iron drums for transporting crude oil and first use of the augur principle later employed in rotary rigs.
The Cable Tool Rig brought in the first important wells of the permian basin. This Rig was reconstructed from parts of several Rig was reconstructed from parts of several rigs actually used at big lake, Regan county, where the No. 1 Santa Rita blew in during may 1923 as the first well in the first major oil field in the permian basin.
To the cable tool rig and the men who used it goes credit for the great development in the permian basin
As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.
The Johnson Space Center, located in Houston, played a crucial role in the development of the U.S. space program. It was here that NASA trained its astronauts and mission control teams, and it continues to be an important center for space research and exploration today.
The county's history took a major turn in 1881 when the Texas and Pacific Railway reached the area. This led to the establishment of the town of Odessa, which would later become the county seat. The area experienced a boom in population and economic growth, thanks to the development of the railroad and the discovery of oil in the early 20th century.
Ector County played a significant role in the oil boom of West Texas. The discovery of oil in the Permian Basin in the late 1920s transformed the region into one of the largest oil-producing areas in the United States. This led to a rapid increase in population and the development of oil-related industries. The county's economy became heavily reliant on oil, with many residents working in the oil fields or related industries.
In recent years, Ector County has continued to see growth and development. The region has diversified its economy to include industries such as healthcare, education, and manufacturing. As the county seat, Odessa has become a vibrant city with a thriving arts and cultural scene. Today, Ector County is known for its rich history, oil heritage, and its contributions to the energy industry.
Ector County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Ector County, Texas.
- 1880 - Ector County is established and named after Confederate General Mathew Ector.
- 1889 - Odessa, the county seat, is founded as a water stop and trading post for the Texas and Pacific Railway.
- 1927 - The discovery of oil in the Permian Basin leads to a population boom in Ector County.
- 1935 - Odessa becomes a city and experiences rapid growth due to the oil industry.
- 1951 - The University of Texas Permian Basin is founded in Odessa.
- 1970 - Ector County's population surpasses 100,000 residents.