Interviewer(s): D. Z. Toups. Golden Meadow, LA

Affiliation: University of Arizona

A friend of mine, Brent Duet, who owns a shipyard in Golden Meadow, dealing with large boat repair, told me of Mr. Robert Looper and his history with the oil field. I asked Mr. Duet if he would contact Mr. Looper regarding possibly speaking to me about his experiences during his many years of employment with Chevron. After being told that he would like to speak with me, I contacted him by phone to introduce myself and explain the purpose and procedure of the interview. He was very friendly and willing to tell his story. I later called him to set up a definite date and time. I interviewed him in his home in Golden Meadow where he lives alone with his dog, Fluffy. He was very friendly and willing to elaborate on detail when requested. My husband, Philip Toups, accompanied me to the visit to Mr. Looper's home. You may hear him at times, on the tape, commenting on Mr. Looper's conversation. Mr. Looper has been retired since 1987. He has taken an interest in local history and genealogy, although he is not originally from this area. He has put together several books on local history and families of this bayou/gulf area. Mr. Looper did not have any photographs on hand to share with us. He reported that he has donated his photos to the local library and will try to send some to me to include with his recorded interview.

Mr. Looper's career with the oil industry began in 1946 when a friend told him that The California Company was looking for engineers to work offshore. His first job was as a first assistant engineer on the first off shore structure in Bay Marchand (Platform A). Mr. Looper did not actually work on the rig itself, but worked on a converted World War II vessel, called a Landing Ship Tank (LST), which was tied up to the rig and supplied the rig with necessary equipment and supplies. Later he became a chief engineer on the same vessel. Mr. Looper's account describes what the ship looked like and its purpose and significance. Later he was promoted to assistant to the manager of the marine department in Harvey and again later was moved to Leeville where he remained until his retirement.