Pennsylvanian Geology and Mineral Resources of West Central Indiana

Abstract

During the period of oil and gas development in the 1950s, many petroleum geologists became interested in Pennsylvanian stratigraphy in Indiana. They hoped that the attitude of some of the key beds in the Pennsylvanian might indicate location of domes in deeper oil producing horizons. The sponsors organized this conference to give petroleum geologists, coal producers, clay producers, and other interested persons a better understanding of Pennsylvanian stratigraphy. The conference was planned to provide an opportunity to observe and discuss representative sections of the Pennsylvanian formations in western Indiana. Unfortunately, the best exposures are in the last cuts of strip mines, many of which are no longer accessible. Similar adjacent sections, however, may be available. The sections which have been selected are considered to be about average. The writers hope that the discussion both of the sections presented herein and of the problems connected with them will be mutually beneficial. The opportunity to become better acquainted and to exchange ideas is an important part of the conference.