Two early oil wells, located in Pennsylvania in the mid-19th century. Notice the many different sized barrels in the background. At this time, barrel size was not yet standardized, which made sayings like, Two early oil wells, located in Pennsylvania in the mid-19th century. Notice the many different sized barrels in the background. At this time, barrel size was not yet standardized, which made sayings like, "Oil is selling at $5 per barrel" very confusing. Photos courtesy of Pennsylvania Historical Museum Commission.

The history of petroleum geoscience goes hand-in-hand with the history of the world. The technology and culture of petroleum geology reflect those of the time, past and present. There are many museums, memorials, and other historical establishments commemorating the contributions of the petroleum industry to the world's cultural landscape.

Petroleum Through Time

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