The Petroleum Club: There are Petroleum Clubs existing in most large cities where there is a high activity of exploration, drilling, and any other marketing of petroleum in the...

Robert J Samples Loc: Round Rock, Texas

There are Petroleum Clubs existing in most large cities where there is a high activity of exploration, drilling, and any other marketing of petroleum in the surrounding area. This includes much of Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, New Mexico, and to a lesser degree in Colorado, Wyoming, and both North and South Dakotas and Mississippi. (If I have left out any other states, it is due to my ignorance, and please pardon me for not doing more research.)

With a high level of pride and arrogance, I state simply that Texas, Oklahoma and Louisiana taught the world how to search for, find, and produce petroleum products. You should not be surprised to hear a southern, or southwestern accent where ever you might roam when you are rubbing shoulders with petroleum related activities and the folks that are responsible for making it happen. There is a common saying among us, “if you did it, it aint bragging!”

This story happened and took place in Lafayette, Louisiana at the Petroleum Club in that city. John Coleman, who was at the time an employee of a division of Mexia Tank Company that was a division of Warren Enterprises. John and I had previously been employees of Lederle Laboratories and John had retired. I was at the time Vice President of Marketing of Warren Automatic Tool Co., and when John approached me about a job, I had referred him to the Mexia Tank Company, and they had hired him.

John and a customer had gone to the Lafayette Petroleum Club for lunch. This was during the time when there had been a severe drop in the price of crude oil, and it had caused a severe reduction in drilling activity and loss of many jobs in the industry. All of which, ‘feast or famine’, which was quite common in the oil patch.

After they were seated at their table, John was going to offer a prayer of Thanks, as he ordinarily did at every meal. Now John is a big man, probably 6 foot 4 inches tall, has a commanding presence, and his voice is distinctive, and which carries even without him intending do so.
When he said, “Our Father,” and began his prayer, the entire room fell completely silent, acting as though John had intended to say his prayer for everyone present. When he finished, there were several Amens! There had been a universal need felt by all!

It seems that the men at the numerous tables had not said any blessing for their meals but had obviously felt the need and John had provided the stimulus and opportunity for everyone to participate in his prayer. Hard times had come again, and all felt a sincere need for his simple and heart felt prayer to the Creator for relief and care.

So, what is the morale of this story? I think it is if you ordinarily offer up thanks to God for your meals, go ahead and do it even in a restaurant or eating place. You don’t know but what others will see and even hear your example, be benefitted by it, and may even be emboldened enough to say their own blessings, either there or later, due simply by your example. I have been complimented for my example of saying a simple prayer at mealtime, by others who have noticed my doing so. You should not do it for showmanship, but from an earnest and thankful heart. Just Sayin…RJS

Randyhartford Loc: Lawrence, Kansas

Robert J Samples wrote:

There are Petroleum Clubs existing in most large cities where there is a high activity of exploration, drilling, and any other marketing of petroleum in the surrounding area. This includes much of Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, New Mexico, and to a lesser degree in Colorado, Wyoming, and both North and South Dakotas and Mississippi. (If I have left out any other states, it is due to my ignorance, and please pardon me for not doing more research.)

With a high level of pride and arrogance, I state simply that Texas, Oklahoma and Louisiana taught the world how to search for, find, and produce petroleum products. You should not be surprised to hear a southern, or southwestern accent where ever you might roam when you are rubbing shoulders with petroleum related activities and the folks that are responsible for making it happen. There is a common saying among us, “if you did it, it aint bragging!”

This story happened and took place in Lafayette, Louisiana at the Petroleum Club in that city. John Coleman, who was at the time an employee of a division of Mexia Tank Company that was a division of Warren Enterprises. John and I had previously been employees of Lederle Laboratories and John had retired. I was at the time Vice President of Marketing of Warren Automatic Tool Co., and when John approached me about a job, I had referred him to the Mexia Tank Company, and they had hired him.

John and a customer had gone to the Lafayette Petroleum Club for lunch. This was during the time when there had been a severe drop in the price of crude oil, and it had caused a severe reduction in drilling activity and loss of many jobs in the industry. All of which, ‘feast or famine’, which was quite common in the oil patch.

After they were seated at their table, John was going to offer a prayer of Thanks, as he ordinarily did at every meal. Now John is a big man, probably 6 foot 4 inches tall, has a commanding presence, and his voice is distinctive, and which carries even without him intending do so.
When he said, “Our Father,” and began his prayer, the entire room fell completely silent, acting as though John had intended to say his prayer for everyone present. When he finished, there were several Amens! There had been a universal need felt by all!

It seems that the men at the numerous tables had not said any blessing for their meals but had obviously felt the need and John had provided the stimulus and opportunity for everyone to participate in his prayer. Hard times had come again, and all felt a sincere need for his simple and heart felt prayer to the Creator for relief and care.

So, what is the morale of this story? I think it is if you ordinarily offer up thanks to God for your meals, go ahead and do it even in a restaurant or eating place. You don’t know but what others will see and even hear your example, be benefitted by it, and may even be emboldened enough to say their own blessings, either there or later, due simply by your example. I have been complimented for my example of saying a simple prayer at mealtime, by others who have noticed my doing so. You should not do it for showmanship, but from an earnest and thankful heart. Just Sayin…RJS

There are Petroleum Clubs existing in most large c... (show quote)

Amen, Bob. We always pray over our food, regardless of where we are eating. It’s a good habit.

Robert J Samples Loc: Round Rock, Texas

Yes, Randy: A lot of oilmen were fond of saying," Lord, please give us another oil boom, and we promise not to screw the next one up!" Just Sayin...RJS

Ak49girl Loc: Alaska

Thank you for your story. My husband has never failed to say grace over our meal no matter where we are. Yes we do get compliments from others, but as you said it's not for getting accolades it's for being thankful for what is given and the grace to obtain it. Thank you again

Jeremy Loc: America

Robert J Samples wrote:

Yes, Randy: A lot of oilmen were fond of saying," Lord, please give us another oil boom, and we promise not to screw the next one up!" Just Sayin...RJS

Promises Promises.

Sinker Rig Loc: Tampa area

Robert J Samples wrote:

There are Petroleum Clubs existing in most large cities where there is a high activity of exploration, drilling, and any other marketing of petroleum in the surrounding area. This includes much of Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, New Mexico, and to a lesser degree in Colorado, Wyoming, and both North and South Dakotas and Mississippi. (If I have left out any other states, it is due to my ignorance, and please pardon me for not doing more research.)

With a high level of pride and arrogance, I state simply that Texas, Oklahoma and Louisiana taught the world how to search for, find, and produce petroleum products. You should not be surprised to hear a southern, or southwestern accent where ever you might roam when you are rubbing shoulders with petroleum related activities and the folks that are responsible for making it happen. There is a common saying among us, “if you did it, it aint bragging!”

This story happened and took place in Lafayette, Louisiana at the Petroleum Club in that city. John Coleman, who was at the time an employee of a division of Mexia Tank Company that was a division of Warren Enterprises. John and I had previously been employees of Lederle Laboratories and John had retired. I was at the time Vice President of Marketing of Warren Automatic Tool Co., and when John approached me about a job, I had referred him to the Mexia Tank Company, and they had hired him.

John and a customer had gone to the Lafayette Petroleum Club for lunch. This was during the time when there had been a severe drop in the price of crude oil, and it had caused a severe reduction in drilling activity and loss of many jobs in the industry. All of which, ‘feast or famine’, which was quite common in the oil patch.

After they were seated at their table, John was going to offer a prayer of Thanks, as he ordinarily did at every meal. Now John is a big man, probably 6 foot 4 inches tall, has a commanding presence, and his voice is distinctive, and which carries even without him intending do so.
When he said, “Our Father,” and began his prayer, the entire room fell completely silent, acting as though John had intended to say his prayer for everyone present. When he finished, there were several Amens! There had been a universal need felt by all!

It seems that the men at the numerous tables had not said any blessing for their meals but had obviously felt the need and John had provided the stimulus and opportunity for everyone to participate in his prayer. Hard times had come again, and all felt a sincere need for his simple and heart felt prayer to the Creator for relief and care.

So, what is the morale of this story? I think it is if you ordinarily offer up thanks to God for your meals, go ahead and do it even in a restaurant or eating place. You don’t know but what others will see and even hear your example, be benefitted by it, and may even be emboldened enough to say their own blessings, either there or later, due simply by your example. I have been complimented for my example of saying a simple prayer at mealtime, by others who have noticed my doing so. You should not do it for showmanship, but from an earnest and thankful heart. Just Sayin…RJS

There are Petroleum Clubs existing in most large c... (show quote)

O.K. but do it privately. When I'm in a restaurant ripping some shrimp apart I don't want to feel like I'm in a church

Robert J Samples Loc: Round Rock, Texas

You are absolutely right. The family's prayers should be private, and limited to them alone, it was never intended to be broadcast to the room. Just Sayin...RJS

Fish Dancer Loc: Guntersville, Alabama

Robert J Samples wrote:

There are Petroleum Clubs existing in most large cities where there is a high activity of exploration, drilling, and any other marketing of petroleum in the surrounding area. This includes much of Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, New Mexico, and to a lesser degree in Colorado, Wyoming, and both North and South Dakotas and Mississippi. (If I have left out any other states, it is due to my ignorance, and please pardon me for not doing more research.)

With a high level of pride and arrogance, I state simply that Texas, Oklahoma and Louisiana taught the world how to search for, find, and produce petroleum products. You should not be surprised to hear a southern, or southwestern accent where ever you might roam when you are rubbing shoulders with petroleum related activities and the folks that are responsible for making it happen. There is a common saying among us, “if you did it, it aint bragging!”

This story happened and took place in Lafayette, Louisiana at the Petroleum Club in that city. John Coleman, who was at the time an employee of a division of Mexia Tank Company that was a division of Warren Enterprises. John and I had previously been employees of Lederle Laboratories and John had retired. I was at the time Vice President of Marketing of Warren Automatic Tool Co., and when John approached me about a job, I had referred him to the Mexia Tank Company, and they had hired him.

John and a customer had gone to the Lafayette Petroleum Club for lunch. This was during the time when there had been a severe drop in the price of crude oil, and it had caused a severe reduction in drilling activity and loss of many jobs in the industry. All of which, ‘feast or famine’, which was quite common in the oil patch.

After they were seated at their table, John was going to offer a prayer of Thanks, as he ordinarily did at every meal. Now John is a big man, probably 6 foot 4 inches tall, has a commanding presence, and his voice is distinctive, and which carries even without him intending do so.
When he said, “Our Father,” and began his prayer, the entire room fell completely silent, acting as though John had intended to say his prayer for everyone present. When he finished, there were several Amens! There had been a universal need felt by all!

It seems that the men at the numerous tables had not said any blessing for their meals but had obviously felt the need and John had provided the stimulus and opportunity for everyone to participate in his prayer. Hard times had come again, and all felt a sincere need for his simple and heart felt prayer to the Creator for relief and care.

So, what is the morale of this story? I think it is if you ordinarily offer up thanks to God for your meals, go ahead and do it even in a restaurant or eating place. You don’t know but what others will see and even hear your example, be benefitted by it, and may even be emboldened enough to say their own blessings, either there or later, due simply by your example. I have been complimented for my example of saying a simple prayer at mealtime, by others who have noticed my doing so. You should not do it for showmanship, but from an earnest and thankful heart. Just Sayin…RJS

There are Petroleum Clubs existing in most large c... (show quote)

Since moving to Alabama we have started going to several Square Dance clubs and after the dance a few couples will go out to eat together. They always join hands and say Grace together. Took us a time or two to catch on. 😀

Oil scout Loc: Slidell, LA

RJS, you wouldn't know the Lafayette Petroleum Club now. With the loss of the oil industry, anyone can join. Food was always mediocre but the drinks were strong and deals were made daily. It was the place to see folks and to be seen. I'm 76 and am so glad I worked in the industry when we were all having fun.

Robert J Samples Loc: Round Rock, Texas

Yes, Oil Scout: I suppose the same could be said for the Houston Petroleum club. It has moved from the Exxon building to another building downtown. I have never been to the new location. Several of my old friends who were members had died, so I am not inclined to visit. Just Sayin...RJS

TXmudbug Loc: Houston TX

You are so right Robert. I can remember visiting the Houston Petroleum Club with my Dad (a Shell Oil man) and seeing the likes of Glenn Mc Carthy, Bud Adams and others making deals over a few Bourbon’s or Martinis in the good ol’ days. The new one just isn’t the same, only been once. Those Were the good ol’ Days!
laissez les bons temps rouller

Robert J Samples Loc: Round Rock, Texas

Yes, from friends that is what I hear! I didn't want to wash dirty lenin but I sued the club for an accident. I had just recovered from a knee replacement, was taking a client to the club for lunch. The elevator was out of order and the traffic cone to warn folks had been removed by the club manager. The elevator car was about 1 inch higher than the hall floor. When I saw the car door open I started to step in to hold the car door open.

I did not see the car's floor was a little higher and tripped and fell into the car. i bled all over the carpet, had to go to the hospital for X rays and later for a re-do of my previous stitches, and missed work for a couple weeks. I got a small amount for my injury, pain and missing work, but not nearly what I thought it should be. I dropped my membership. Much later i went back for some reason and the manager sought me out and apologized for taking the cone away! Just Sayin....RJS

Americanman28

AMEN!

Robert J Samples Loc: Round Rock, Texas

TXmudbug wrote:

You are so right Robert. I can remember visiting the Houston Petroleum Club with my Dad (a Shell Oil man) and seeing the likes of Glenn Mc Carthy, Bud Adams and others making deals over a few Bourbon’s or Martinis in the good ol’ days. The new one just isn’t the same, only been once. Those Were the good ol’ Days!
laissez les bons temps rouller

Txmudbug: Yes, there were some 'bigger than life' men who belonged to the Houston Petroleum Club. I was in Rotary and there was a BBQ on Bud Adams ranch, and I attended and it was there I was approached and asked to run for president of the Rotary Club of Houston. It was a surprise and I privately thought they were getting desparate if they were asking me to run for president! Just Sayin...RJS