The Petroleum Pioneers of Ranger, Texas
In the midst of World War I, a remarkable discovery in Eastland County, Texas, transformed the landscape of the American oil industry and provided vital resources for the Allied forces. The story of the “Roaring Ranger” oilfield is not only a tale of triumph but also a testament to the resilience and ambition of small-town America. Let’s delve into how this historic oilfield came to be and its far-reaching implications.

In the midst of World War I, a remarkable discovery in Eastland County, Texas, transformed the landscape of the American oil industry and provided vital resources for the Allied forces. The story of the “Roaring Ranger” oilfield is not only a tale of triumph but also a testament to the resilience and ambition of small-town America. Let’s delve into how this historic oilfield came to be and its far-reaching implications.
The Beginning of the Roaring Ranger Oilfield
On October 17, 1917, the J.H. McCleskey No. 1 well erupted in a spectacular geyser of oil from a depth of 3,432 feet. This monumental discovery came after months of labor, starting when William K. Gordon, then vice president of the Texas and Pacific Coal Company, approved the drill on McCleskey’s farm just south of Ranger. With the region suffering from severe drought, local farmers were eager for the promise of “black gold” to revive their community.

Photo Courtesy of Library of Congress
The initial output of the Roaring Ranger well was astonishing: it produced 1,600 barrels a day of high gravity oil, and with subsequent gushers, production soared to up to 10,000 barrels daily. As this oil boom ignited hopes for financial stability, Ranger’s population exploded from less than 1,000 to over 30,000, primarily attracting men seeking fortunes in this new oil buzz.
Economic Transformation and Growth
The Roaring Ranger discovery did more than just increase the town’s population; it catalyzed an economic revolution in Eastland County. The Texas and Pacific Railroad quickly became crucial to the logistics of this booming oil industry, facilitating the transportation of not just oil but also the workers and equipment vital to sustaining the operations.
Within 20 months of the discovery, the stock price of the Texas and Pacific Coal Company skyrocketed from $30 to an incredible $1,250 a share. The urgency for resources brought a flood of entrepreneurs and workers, along with some unsavory characters looking to exploit the situation for personal gain. This influx of people also necessitated law enforcement; local Texas Rangers were called in to maintain order amidst the chaos.
The Role of Oil in World War I
The oil extracted from Ranger and nearby fields became an essential component in the war efforts for the Allies. As noted by a member of the British War Cabinet, “The Allied cause floated to victory upon a wave of oil.” The robust production from the Roaring Ranger area directly contributed to the energy needs of military operations during the war, making this small Texas town pivotal in the conflict.
The oil production surge extended well beyond Ranger, creating an interconnected web of oilfields across the Mid-Continent region, stretching from Texas to Oklahoma and Kansas. The breakthrough of the Roaring Ranger well confirmed the existence of this vast petroleum-producing region, fortifying America's role in the global oil economy.
Lasting Impacts and Legacy
While the initial oil boom began a decline in the early 1920s due to overproduction, the foundation laid by the Roaring Ranger discovery would shape the future of oil exploration and production in the United States. The newfound wealth and development not only redefined Ranger but also left a significant mark on the broader Texas and national economies.

Photo courtesy of Ranger Historical Preservation Society
Today, the legacy of the Roaring Ranger oilfield remains alive in Ranger, Texas. The Roaring Ranger Museum, established in 1982, celebrates this rich history, showcasing historical drilling equipment and photos from the time. Annual festivals and parades continue to honor the contributions of this oilfield, forever remembering the critical role it played in both local and global contexts.
Conclusion
The “Roaring Ranger” oilfield symbolizes more than just a geological discovery; it embodies the spirit of innovation and opportunity that characterized early 20th-century America. The influence of the oil boom in Ranger not only contributed to the economy of Texas but also provided essential support during World War I, showcasing how a small town can make a significant impact on the world stage. As we look back on this fascinating chapter in history, the story of the Roaring Ranger will always be one of triumph, resilience, and the quest for prosperity.

Sources:
Recommended Reading: Ranger, Images of America (2010); The Prize: The Epic Quest for Oil, Money & Power (2008); Trek of the Oil Finders: A History of Exploration for Petroleum (1975).
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