Crayon Making: A Colorful Legacy of the 1920s Oil Boom

Did you know that the 1920s oil boom in south Arkansas helped to lead to crayons and coloring? It is true. Crayons are made from paraffin, and paraffin is a waxy substance that occurs and builds up in the well during oil production. Join our staff at the museum this weekend and discover how crayons and many more everyday products are made from paraffin wax. Take a tour through the museum’s extraction exhibits for a brief discussion on how paraffin is formed and then separated from oil. Following the tour, participants will have the opportunity to make a crayon to take home.

There is no fee for this program. However, to ensure enough space and materials are available, please call the museum at (870) 725-2877 to reserve your place. This program is designed for ages 8 and up. Children under 8 will require adult assistance. There will also be a coloring activity for younger participants. COVID-19 SAFETY GUIDELINES ARE IN EFFECT FOR GUEST AND STAFF SAFETY. SPACE MAY BE LIMITED.