Legacy Oil and Gas Wells Virtual Exhibit

Welcome to the Legacy Oil & Gas Wells Virtual Exhibit. Explore the history, challenges, and impact of oil and gas wells in Ontario, from the first commercial well in 1858 to modern efforts in decommissioning and landowner assistance.

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A sepia-toned historical photograph of a landscape filled with wooden oil derricks. A small house and other buildings are visible among the derricks, indicating an early oil drilling site.

Historical Context

Historical black and white photograph of an early oil field, showing wooden derricks in the background and a group of workers gathered around what appears to be a table or work surface in the foreground. Multiple oil derricks dot the landscape.

Definitions

A sepia-toned historical photograph of an early steam-powered traction engine with large spoked wheels and a tall smokestack. A man in a hat and work clothes stands on the engine, while several other workers stand nearby. In the background, wooden oil derricks are visible.

Early Decommissioning Methods

Dark interior photograph of what appears to be a well, showing wooden support beams and electrical wiring along the ceiling.

Potential Risks and Hazards

Black and white historical photograph of a wooden house or building with several people standing on the front porch. The building appears to be in an oil field setting, with derricks visible in the background. The structure has a peaked roof with a chimney.

Public Safety

A photograph of multiple wooden shelves filled with neatly arranged rock core samples. The cores are cut into cylindrical pieces and labeled with identifying markers, suggesting geological or petroleum exploration.

Help to Landowners

Contemporary color photograph of an abandoned circular well in a wooded area. The well is lined with concrete or stone, and is surrounded by winter vegetation and bare branches. The structure appears weathered and overgrown.

Resources