In 1900, as the city of Galveston was being washed from the earth by a monster hurricane, a one-armed prophet named Pattillo Higgins was chasing a fool's dream on a stinking mound of dirt near Beaumont. While the undisputed queen of Texas saw its future end, Higgins promised a new world would erupt from beneath his feet. This is the incredible story of how one of the deadliest natural disasters in American history created a power vacuum, and how a wildcat oil strike, larger than anything the world had ever seen, filled it with a roar.
Join us for the story of Spindletop: the impossible gusher that erupted for nine straight days, flooded the market with oil so cheap it was literally less expensive than water, and broke the monopoly of Standard Oil. Discover the grit of the Hamill brothers, who invented a revolutionary drilling technique on the fly, and witness the birth of oil giants like Texaco and Gulf Oil from the chaotic, swindling boomtown nicknamed "Swindletop." This single event didn't just fuel the age of the automobile; it fueled the rise of Houston, transforming the scrappy bayou town into the undisputed capital of the new Liquid Century.
Visionaries can see potential where others only see mud. If you have a vision for your future in the Houston area, let the experts at Rothberg Realty Group help you bring it to life. They know the history and the landscape of this great city. Text or call Grant and his team at (281) 688-6551 to drill down on your dream home.
What is Houston in Story?
Bringing the Greater Houston area's vibrant, complex, and often forgotten history to life. We tell engaging, true stories of the people, places, and events that shaped our home and what makes Greater Houston unlike any other metro in the world. Join us to connect with the past and understand the Houston you live in today like never before.
Houston in Story is made possible by the generous support of Rothberg Realty Group w/Keller Williams Preferred. For a team of trusted real estate experts who truly get Houston, text Grant and his team at (281) 688-6551.