Detailed Notes
The Popular Dig Boy Dig Story
During the late 19th century, British engineers were actively surveying Assam while extending railway lines and searching for natural resources. While working in the dense forests near present-day Digboi, they noticed something unusual. Elephants used for hauling timber were returning with dark, oily stains on their feet.
Curious engineers retraced the elephants' paths and discovered crude oil naturally seeping from the ground. Realizing the significance of this find, British supervisors reportedly urged local workers to excavate the area by repeatedly shouting the command 'Dig boy dig'.
Over time, this frequently heard phrase became closely associated with the oil site. As drilling activities increased and the settlement expanded, the name Digboi gradually took root, symbolizing the beginning of organized oil extraction in India.
An Alternative Local Explanation
Apart from the colonial-era legend, many locals believe the name Digboi originated from Diboi Nallah, a small stream flowing through the region. According to this theory, the place name evolved naturally from the geographical landmark rather than from a spoken command.
This explanation suggests that the Dig boy dig story may have gained popularity because it neatly connects Digboi's name with its oil heritage, making it easier to remember and narrate.
Historical Significance of Digboi
Regardless of which origin one believes, Digboi's importance remains undisputed. The town is home to Asia's first oil refinery, established in 1901, which marked a turning point in India's industrial development. Digboi Oilfield is also recognized as one of the oldest continuously producing oil fields in the world.
Today, Digboi stands as a living reminder of Assam's contribution to the global energy sector, blending folklore, history, and industrial legacy into one compelling narrative.