The Gas That Wouldn't Burn
|
Natural gas in this locality was first found in 1903
at Dexter, five miles north. The town, envisioning a
prosperous future, advertised its discovery far and
wide. Crowds gathered to see the well fired, then watched
in dismay as the roaring gas blew out every flame
brought near it. For two years it was scornfully called
"wind gas". Then analysis revealed that it contained
almost two per cent helium.
This primary discovery of helium in natural gas is credited to Professors H. P. Cady and D. F. McFarland of the University of Kansas. Helium was first used in balloons during World War I. For a few years, beginning in 1927, a privately owned commercial plant at Dexter supplied gas for Navy dirigibles. Later valuable uses developed in industry. In the 1950's, demand soared when helium became essential to the operation of nuclear reactors and ballistic missiles. Though Dexter's well no longer produces, the torch that wouldn't burn lighted the way to a multi-million dollar industry. |
|
Intersection of K-15 & US-166 |
More |
Visit the Home Page for Kansas