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."

Hughes Helicopters Division of Summa Corporation in Culver City, California.

Howard Hughes shaking hands with an unidentified man.

From the David Rea Collection of Howard Hughes Publicity Photographs (PH-00400). This collection is comprised of publicity photographs of Howard Hughes and his aircrafts, from approximately the 1940s to the 1950s, that were compiled by David Rea, former pilot for Hughes Aircraft Company. This collection also includes clippings and technical drawings of Hughes aircrafts. Note: Newspaper clippings were not digitized, but are available in the reading room. All digital objects from this collection are part of a photographic album.

A view of Howard Hughes at a banquet dedicated to him in Los Angeles, California.

Howard Hughes (left) standing with an unidentified man in a building possibly located in Texas.

The black and white view of Howard Hughes surrounded by unidentified people while he is out to dinner.