The exterior of Hughes Research Laboratories where rock bits were test-drilled in Culver City, California in the 1940s. Transcribed from note taped to back of photo: "Rock bits are test-drilled in the laboratory under conditions that duplicate, as far as is possible in the laboratory, those encountered in actual drilling. As a result, rotational speeds, loads, and fluid volume are closely controlled. The rig operator occupies a splash-proof booth above the 'cellar floor.' The instruments on his control panel provide for application and measurement of variable axial loading on the drilling bit up to 100,000 lbs., variable rotational speeds up to 400 rpm, measurement of bit penetration over a total vertical travel of 5 feet at rates up to 180 ft. per hour, and torque. On the panel, also, are several controls for the operation of mud pump and other accessory equipment."

Typed onto a piece of paper attached to the image: "Howard Hughes is welcomed by New York on return from Round the World flight. Grover Whalen is on the left. 7/15/38."

Blue-line print ; 74 x 36 cm on sheet 79 x 61 cm. Survey was competed on March 8, 1924. Signed by the owners of the piece of property for the addition Roy W. Martin, Forest R. Mildren, William E. Ferron, and A. W. Ham, signed by the surveyor J.T. McWilliams, and notarized on March 31, 1924. Approved by the Board of City Commissioners and signed by the major W. C. German and by Florence S. Doherty, city clerk, on April 1, 1924. Recorded in Book 1 of plats, page 47. Includes township and range grid.