Petrolia in Humboldt County, California — The American West (Pacific Coastal)

California's First Drilled Oil Wells

Photographed By Michael Kindig, April 13, 2001

1. California's First Drilled Oil Wells Marker

Inscription. California's first drilled oil wells producing crude to be refined and sold commercially were located on the north fork of the Mattole River approximately three miles east of here. The old Union Mattole Oil Company made its first shipment of oil from here in June 1865 to a San Francisco refinery. many old well heads remain today.

Erected 1955 by California State Park Commission in cooperation with the Eureka Oil Information Committee and the Western Oil and Gas Association. (Marker Number 543.)

Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Industry & Commerce • Natural Resources • Notable Places. In addition, it is included in the California Historical Landmarks series list. A significant historical month for this entry is June 1865.

Location. 40° 19.463′ N, 124° 17.225′ W. Marker is in Petrolia, California, in Humboldt County. Marker is on Front Street east of Sherman Avenue, on the right when traveling west. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Petrolia CA 95558, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 3 other markers are within 15 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies. The Pacific Lumber Company (approx. 14.7 miles away); Scotia Museum (approx. 14.7 miles away); Wi'ne'ma Theatre (approx. 14.7 miles away).

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Photographed By Michael Kindig, April 13, 2001

2. California's First Drilled Oil Wells Marker

Credits. This page was last revised on June 16, 2016. It was originally submitted on January 25, 2012, by Michael Kindig of Elk Grove, California. This page has been viewed 815 times since then and 29 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on January 25, 2012, by Michael Kindig of Elk Grove, California. • Syd Whittle was the editor who published this page.