OLD HOME: “When the glory of Oil Creek no longer was bright;

When Lower Field wells in their output were light.

‘Twas believed that the regions of oil were defined,

And hope and production conjointly declined.”

So starts a poem published in the July 12, 1909, Era for Old
Home Week. Continuing:

“It was then something happened. The news spread about

That a place known as Bradford had wells that could spout.

The news proved correct; a new oil field was found

And its fame far and wide through the land did resound.

At once a great movement to Bradford commenced

And those who came early were well recompensed.

The rock, which so long had awaited the drill,

Was found most prolific, ‘neath valley and hill.

The paystreak was vast, and in rich, amber streams,

Its flow quite exceeded the wealth-seekers’ dreams.

This oil yield extensive for years was maintained –

E’en yet Bradford’s sand of its oil is not drained.

The town on the Tuna, a hamlet obscure,

Attracted the multitude – oil was the lure –

And from districts remote and sections nearby

Came people by thousands, their fortunes to try.

And fortunes were found here by those who explored

The depths where the Oil Geni’s treasure was stored.

The boom time of Bradford with life was replete;

And onrushing industry knew no retreat.

For thrifty producer and skilled man of toil,

For tradesman and trader, this rare land of oil

Presented resources which quickly were seized;

Prosperity reigned and with Bradford was pleased!

Here homes were located. The small village grew

To be a metropolis, vigorous, new;

For methods progressive it soon had renown –

A wide-awake, up-to-date, oil region town!

The years have rolled onward and oil’s ebb and flow

Have wrought many changes – we now may be slow,

Where once we were speedy – but still on the map

Our town’s to be found! And with oil yet on tap!

And the old Bradford spirit, still active and strong,

Gives life to our projects and drives them along!

And Bradford’s good fellowship, hearty, sincere,

Will be found as of yore, to be prevalent here.

When they come for a week, beloved scenes to review

Will be proud of the Bradford they formerly knew.”