Lubbock-Bridgeport Oil Development Company

The Bridgeport, Texas, based Lubbock-Bridgeport Oil Development Company was formed as an unincorporated joint-stock association of Shallowater, Lubbock, Bridgeport, and Fort Worth, Texas businessmen and investors to tap into the oil "boom" frenzy prevalent in North Central Texas. Tempted by the proximity of oil in nearby Petrolia, Texas, the company leased wildcat prospects in Wise County, Texas, beginning in February, 1918. Drilling began in May, 1919 and, with varying success, continued through 1920 with an exploratory wildcat dipping into depths of 4,500 feet, one of the deepest wells drilled to that date. The company formally incorporated as the Lubbock Oil Corporation in January, 1920, and, with additional financing, resumed drilling operations. The company completed a dry-hole on June 27, 1920, which financially ruined Lubbock Oil. The company sold off leases and other property to complete the well. After the "duster" the corporation tried to resume operations. By July, 1921, the stockholders dissolved the corporation.