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The Gas That Wouldn'T Burn KS59 |
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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 near it. For two years it was scornfully called "wind gas." Then analysis revealed that it contained almost two percent 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 1950s, 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.
US-166, Roadside turnout, 12 miles west of Cedarvale at K-15 junction Cowley County Kansas.
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Kansas 