On September 27, 1915, Ardmore, Oklahoma, became the site of the deadliest and most destructive gas explosion in American history up to that time. The incident not only caused significant loss of life but also marked a turning point in the regulation of natural gasoline, leading to improved safety measures in the oil and gas industry.
Understanding Casinghead Gasoline
Casinghead gasoline, or natural gasoline, is a volatile substance collected from natural gas at the casinghead of an oil or gas well. This product played a crucial role in Oklahoma’s early petroleum development, with forty natural gasoline plants operating in the state by 1913.
To transport casinghead gasoline safely, it is placed under high pressure, converting it to a liquid state. However, it must remain at around 50°F; otherwise, it expands and reverts to a gaseous state. Due to its volatility, it was typically shipped to refineries by rail.
The Incident Unfolds
On September 26, 1915, a railroad car carrying casinghead gasoline arrived at the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway depot in Ardmore. The car was left at the depot, awaiting transport to a nearby refinery. The following day, rising temperatures activated the car’s pop-off valve, designed to release gas pressure. As a result, gas began to leak into the low-lying areas of downtown Ardmore.
Compounding the danger, a fire had erupted at a nearby asphaltum plant, prompting the train conductor to refuse to move the car. In a fateful decision, a representative from the Ardmore Refining Company removed the dome from the top of the car, releasing a significant amount of gas and vapors into the atmosphere.
The Explosion
At 2:20 p.m. on September 27, an explosion, triggered by an unidentified source, obliterated much of downtown Ardmore. The blast was catastrophic, leveling buildings and sending debris flying, resulting in widespread devastation.
Casualties
The explosion claimed the lives of 43 people and left many others injured. The tragedy shocked the community and prompted immediate investigations into the causes and accountability for the disaster.
Investigation and Accountability
A district grand jury and a local coroner’s jury found the Santa Fe Railway at fault for the disaster. In response to the community’s outrage, citizens formed a committee to handle claims from victims and their families. More than 1,700 claims were filed, resulting in the railway officials paying $1.25 million in compensation.
Regulatory Changes
The Ardmore disaster underscored the urgent need for stricter regulations governing the shipment and handling of casinghead gasoline. In the aftermath, new rules were implemented at the state level to enhance safety in the transportation of this volatile substance. The Natural Gasoline Manufacturers Association, headquartered in Tulsa from 1921, led the charge in advocating for changes and improvements in extraction and transportation methods for natural gasoline.
The 1915 Ardmore Gas Explosion stands as a tragic reminder of the potential dangers associated with natural gas and casinghead gasoline. It prompted significant changes in industry practices and regulations, ultimately leading to a safer environment for the communities involved. As we reflect on this devastating event, it serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and safety in the handling of hazardous materials.