Discovery of Oil

United Houma Nation History

The end of the Civil War meant the beginning of huge changes in southern Louisiana. The discovery of oil in southern Louisiana in the early 1900s forever changed the landscape of southern Louisiana. Members of the United Houma Nation have directly experienced two of the most significant environmental impacts of oil and gas exploration: coastal erosion and the contamination of the environment. There were few benefits to the Houma community as local and outside elites acquired their land and brought in outsiders to work in the new industry. Because of their lack of education, the Houma Indians were unable to read land leases and contracts, and many were cheated out of their land. They were at first unable to get jobs because of language differences, illiteracy, and discrimination. As the industry moved offshore, some fishermen and other experienced boat operators used their vessels to haul people and supplies to the rigs and platforms.

Pump, tanks, and pipe in Golden Meadow, LA, 1939.
Photo courtesy of Bernice Curole, OOGHP, 1-21-02.

Discovery of Oil

In 2001, as part of the Offshore Oil and Gas History Project, researchers from the University of Houston, University of Louisiana at Lafayette, and University of Arizona began collecting oral histories of the early pioneers in the offshore oil and gas industry.

Major Changes

The oil and gas industry forever changed the landscape of southern Louisiana. Members of the United Houma Nation have directly experienced two of the most significant environmental impacts of oil and gas exploration: coastal erosion and the contamination of the environment

Each stage in the development of oil and gas fields from exploration to discovery and production can have major impacts on the environment. While the process has been improved, the legacy of the early activities and the ongoing disposal of oilfield wastes continue to have negative effects on the people and communities in which tribal members live.