History of the Offshore Oil and Gas Industry in Southern Louisiana. Interim Report. Volume 1: Papers on the Evolving Offshore Industry

摘要

The evolution of the oil and gas industry and its movement to the offshore has been one of the fundamental forces shaping Louisianas culture, geography, society and economy during the twentieth century. The story of how this came about -- how the offshore oil and gas industry progressed from humble beginnings to an information-intensive force whose ability to perform in hostile environments is often compared to the manned space program -- it is not well known or understood. Even less well documented are the effects that the evolution of the offshore oil and gas industry has had on coastal communities and institutions. The purpose of this project is to study, document and explain this evolution in an objective and comprehensive way. A critical element of the history of the offshore industry resides in the memories of the 'old timers.' They were there. They remember how things were and how they have changed. Unfortunately, many of the people responsible for this phenomenal growth are passing away and their stories are being lost. There is a long list of innovators and pioneers from fabricators, port officials, helicopter pilots and catering crews, to divers, truckers, suppliers, boat captains and able-bodied seamen. They are all part of the growth and development of the industry. There are also civic leaders, business owners, spouses and family members who felt firsthand the impacts of this industry. The oral history record that has been built through this study has depended on the active participation of a diverse cross section of people with direct experience with the oil and gas industry and its effects.