Sudden Failure of an Oil Well

The Titusville (Pennsylvania) Herald of November 14 says:

The stoppage of the Frazier or United States Well, which occurred on Friday last, naturally creates some sensation among all men. We personally visited the well a fortnight since, when it was producing about 480 barrels per day, a very marked decline from what it was popularly rated outside. The report that it had entirely failed on Friday was generally discredited, but it is confirmed. The occasion of the flow was sudden and unlooked for, and was first made known to the Company by two visitors at the well, who discovered that it had ceased flowing, and reported the circumstances at the office.

The Frazier was the first well struck on the Holmden Farm. It was struck in the early part of January last, and started at 225 barrels per day. It is the second productive well of any consequence that has failed. The Holmstead, which was the second well struck, suspended operations some time ago. Both wells have proved highly remunerative to their owners, and have name and fame for Pithole.

“Sudden Failure of an Oil Well,” American and Commercial Advertiser, November 18, 1865.