Our History

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In 1948, the city of Port Arthur observed its 50th Birthday, The Golden Jubilee. There was a gigantic parade, beard contest, Queen’s pageant, contests, barbecues, races, and various other programs usually found in community celebrations.

Following the celebration, John Ayres, then Editor of the Port Arthur News, editorialized “Why doesn’t Port Arthur have an annual celebration like other cities have”? At least three or four times a year, readers could expect to read the same admonition and challenge.

In 1952, Lyle M. Vickers, chief executive of the Port Arthur Chamber of Commerce, was directed by his board to come up with a dramatic, worthwhile and economic betterment project for that organization. After two months, Vickers, who had noted the Port Arthur News continued references for an annual celebration, submitted the project which he felt fulfilled the board’s recommendation. It was to be an annual celebration wherein the community could show its appreciation to the oil refining companies for their contributions to the economic life, recreational activities, educational opportunities, and the general good life of the people in Port Arthur- in other words, a salute to the oil industry.

The Chamber board adopted the project as a part of its program, but stated that it must be financed by separate fund-raising. The Chamber required a separate, non-profit organization be formed and the citizens of Port Arthur were asked to make suggestions for the name. Lee Eagleson, veteran and ardent civic worker, suggested “cavOILcade, a fun celebration but one that shows we are saluting the OIL companies, too.” When the idea was submitted to the Chamber, the board unanimously adopted the name.

Though cavOILcade is no longer under the Chamber of Commerce, the intent is still the same today as in 1952.

Recorded by Hazel Baron

cavOILcade Executive Director for 31 years