In Search of Black Gold

"[Lot of 3] Oil Map of Oklahoma and Texas [and] [Untitled - Map Showing Balcone's Fault] [and] Twin Wild-Cats!! --- In the Heart of Gusher Lane",

A. [Map and documents] Oil Map of Oklahoma and Texas, by the Geographical Publishing Co., dated 1919, printed color (26.3 x 31.0"). This large and very colorful oil field pocket map covers the entire state of Texas including the panhandle, with the western portion in a large inset. Names all oil fields, the course of early oil pipelines, counties and watersheds. Bold color and line identifies seventeen different geological strata. The map represents a remarkable and scarce record of the state of the oil industry just after the close of WWI. The verso is filled with promotional text and photographs illustrating the oil wealth in the region. Accompanied by a letter dated December 2, 1927 from "Yates Ranch Royalties" offering shares, a flyer "Flash! Last Minute Sensation from Yates Field!", an order form and an envelope. The promoters subsequently were indicted for fraud in 1930. Condition: The map is in need of repair with two holes along the border with the legend at right, and a smaller hole in the map in the vicinity of the top border. There are several other minor holes along the fold lines and a number of fold separations that have been closed on verso with archival tape. Still a fascinating piece despite its condition issues. (D)

B. [Untitled - Map Showing Balcone's Fault], by Caraway & Taylor, circa 1922, printed color (8.0 x 10.9"). This map is featured on the front page of a 4-page flyer with the title "Barton's Grub Stake" and shows multiple wells in a line east of Dallas/Fort Worth. The promoter was Frank Barton of Ft. Worth who claimed to be a pioneer in the Mexia Field, but a fire resulted in loss of valuable papers and brought him to this solicitation for a “Grub Stake,” i.e. a stock offering. Condition: Uneven toning at top. (B+)

C. Twin Wild-Cats!! --- In the Heart of Gusher Lane, circa 1936, black & white (7.5 x 11.9"). This broadside contains a small 6.2 x 6" map of "Gusher Lane" stretching from Wyoming south to Texas showing all the oil fields. The verso has additional text and illustrations with the title "Another Chance at Fortune." Published by the B.E. Walter Oil and Gas Company. Condition: There are two small fold separations confined to the right blank margin. (B+)

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Condition:

See description above.