California Travel Tips
First Offshore Oil Production in Western Hemisphere
Published on: November 08, 2015
SUMMERLAND, CALIF. — Each time you make a pit stop at Lookout Park off I-101 south of Santa Barbara you learn something new. In addition to the beautiful, dog-friendly beach, soda machines, picnic tables with BBQ grills, kids playground and public restrooms, there are signs informing visitors about the present & past. One plaque even commemorates the first offshore oil production in the Western Hemisphere!
Here are a few tidbits:
- The Summerland oil field initially produced from onshore oil wells but beginning in 1896 production was extended off shore.
- 22 oil companies operated oil wells from 12 wharves in 1899.
- Posted signs warn (in English and Spanish) of possible short-term health threats from contact with oil on the beach, in the water or air.
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