Abstract: This invention is used in conjunction with a small drilling rig having a traveling head. The apparatus enables the rig to accommodate much longer joints of casing than is otherwise possible, and avoids damage to the threads at the box and pin end of the joint. An upper and lower elevator is provided, along with an adaptor apparatus by which one of the elevators can be attached to the traveling head of the rig. In going into the hole, one elevator is attached to the upper end of a joint, the adaptor apparatus is attached to and lifted by the traveling head, and lowered until the elevator engages the rig floor. Thereafter the head is removed from the elevator so that the elevator supports the box end of the joint at the rig floor. The other elevator is of similar construction and is attached to the upper end of another joint. The head lifts the joint into the derrick so that the pin end thereof can be mated to the box end of the first joint, thereby providing a string located within the borehole.