History

Apache Corporation was conceived 50 years ago. Its gestation, with no small amount of planning, has yielded a company that is built to last.
— Raymond Plank "Critical Mass: Apache at 50"

Apache was formed in 1954 with $250,000 of investor capital with the simple concept of becoming a significant and profitable oil company. Today, Apache Corporation is one of the world's top independent oil and gas exploration and production companies. The journey to this point was fueled by Apache's contrarian approach to business. The eras linked below tell the story...

1954 - 1956: The early years
1959 - 1971: Alternate paths
1973 - 1986: Return to roots
1987 - 2003: Critical mass
2004 - today: Exploring what's possible

Since its inception in 1954, Apache has been drivin by a relentless pursuit of opportunity to profitably grow an independent oil and gas company for the long-term benefit of our shareholders.
— G. Steven Farris "Summary Annual Report 2010"