Needham 3 (037-12981)

Needham 3 (later unofficially named Gate King 3-3 when the property became owned by Gate King) was drilled by the Southern California Drilling Company in May - June of 1930. The final depth was 1683 feet. Thirty days after completion, the well was producing 80 barrels of 20 gravity oil per day. The records don't say when pumping was ended, but the pump was never removed. (Photo date 9/4/2017)

Needham 3. The pump was never removed after the well went off production. (9/4/2017)

This is a Cabot pump sold by Howard Supply. The Howard Supply Company started in 1937. Here is a youtube video of an actual Cabot pump running (but not this one). (8/28/2017)

Needham 3. (8/28/2017)

Needham 3 with the wellhead exposed for future abandonment. New bolts and probably the side pipe extension with plug were added. Also a sign with the well number was attached. (12/16/2017)

The Victor Fire in July of 2023 also burned near this well. (8/5/2023)

Another view of the well after the fire from further away. (8/12/2023)

The site has been graded for abandonment. The pump was removed from the well and placed nearby. By the end of abandonment operations, the pump will be removed from the site and trashed.(1/24/2026)

Here is the pumps last resting place before being taken away.(1/24/2026)

Well with pump in distance. (2/14/2026)

Rig is now over the well. (3/7/2026)

Closer view. (3/7/2026)

At the wellhead with the BOPE (blowout prevention equipment) bolted to the wellhead. Casing has already been removed from the well shaft and placed on the ground. (3/7/2026)

The hole has been dug and the remaining casing has been cut off 5 feet from the surface. Pulled casing still on ground. (3/14/2026)

Looking into the hole. (3/15/2026)

A week later the cement work is done and the cap with the well number has been welded to the top of the casing.(3/22/2026)

Needham 3, well number 12981 (037 preface not used because it only indicates the county), March of 2026. (3/22/2026)

Still have casing and sucker rods (on right) to dispose of. (3/22/2026)

Abandonment done. Site "restored". (4/5/2026)