‘A History of Crude Oil – from its Mesopotamia origins to Colonel Drake”
Alan’s synopsis:
6000 years ago, crude oil was a prized commodity. The earliest historical records of its use are from Mesopotamia, an area which includes present day Syria and Iraq. We will see that the thin, highly flammable oils were the least desirable and that it was the thick bituminous materials that were valued by the Sumerians. It was used as a building material, as waterproofing agents and as adhesives. Less predictable uses in jewellery, medicines and for skin treatment were found. Muslim scholars discovered how to distil oils in the 9th century AD, enabling more refined products to be used for lighting and as a fuel.
The invention of the simple kerosene lamp in the mid-19th century was the first trigger for increased demand. We will learn that the first oil well was not sunk in Pennsylvania although Drake’s well was revolutionary and we will also uncover the fact that the world’s first commercial oil refinery was in Midlothian.
Venue: the Casa Cultura, Javea old town (down the steps from the tourist office and turn left). There is no charge and booking is not required – just come and take a seat. The presentation will commence at 11.30 am and lasts approx. 1 hour – all members are welcome to attend.
Contact group leaders, Angela & Tony, for further information about the History Group.
