Cameron Iron Works, Houston, Texas
historic place
Welcome to the site of Cameron Iron Works in Houston, Texas. This historic location began in 1920 when oil wildcatter James Smither Abercrombie acquired Harry S. Cameron's shop. The company incorporated on August 20, 1920. Cameron Iron Works made a significant impact by patenting an innovative blowout preventer in April 1922. This device greatly improved oilfield safety and was later recognized as a Historic Mechanical Engineering Landmark. During World War II, Cameron Iron Works manufactured army ordnance, receiving the Navy "E" award in 1941 for its production. The company diversified into atomic and space technology, military, energy, and aerospace industries. In 1989, Cameron Iron Works merged with Cooper Industries. The buildings at 711 Milby Street were listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2020. This site represents a significant chapter in Houston's industrial and technological development.