Lamar University Spindletop Gladys City Boomtown Museum
What is Spindletop?
If one had asked a Beaumont on January 1, 1901, what big news of recent months had most interested him, he would have said the great Galveston hurricane of September 8, or the dawning of a new century. If one had asked him on January 10, he would have said the great gusher at Spindletop - a salt dome about three miles south of Beaumont. Dubbed "The Lucas Gusher," the oil discovery on Spindletop Hill changed the economy of Texas and helped to usher in the petroleum age.
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Lucas Gusher Re-enactment Schedule
The Lucas Gusher gave up its riches for nine days before Anthony Lucas and the Hamill brothers could get the well under control. We re-create the gusher using water and only run it for about 2 minutes. But it is always fun to watch how high the water will blow and what direction the spray will take. It is always free to enjoy the gusher re-enactment. Regular admission fees apply to museum entrance.
120th Anniversary Event, January 9th - 10:30am and 2:00pm
January 14th - 12:00pm
January 20th - 1:00pm
January 29th - 12:00pm
Come out and celebrate the 120th Anniversary of the Spindletop Gladys City first oil strike!
January 10th is probably the most important day in Beaumont history. In 1901, the Hamill Brothers brought in the first gusher of oil that lasted 9 days. Known as the Lucas Gusher, this feat is celebrated every year on the second Saturday of January at the museum. Free for everyone, this year's event will be held on January 9th, 2021 at 10:00am - 4:00pm.
There will be a variety of demonstrations and re-enactments, the gusher will blow two times, the Harmony Exporters will be our musical guest, food to purchase, a Cigar Lounge, a blacksmith class to observe or participate in (contact museum to reserve spot), era-related games, and more!
Dress up in 1901 costume and participants will receive 10% off in our gift shop!
COVID-19 UPDATES:
In response to the COVID-19 outbreak and in accordance with the Texas Department of State Health Services' guidelines for museum reopenings, the Spindletop Gladys City Boomtown Museum and its staff are continuously working to ensure the safety of our guests and visitors. We ask for and appreciate your cooperation in ensuring the health and safety of our staff and visitors.
Recommendations:
- We strongly recommend that all visitors wear masks or face coverings while at the museum.
- Please follow all social distancing guidelines set by the CDC and the Texas Department of State Health Services.
- Please have no more than 5 people inside each building at a time.
- Please have no more than 10 people inside of the gift shop and/or Caroline Room at a time.
