"Boom Town"

"Boom Town". . , The discovery of natural gas in the small village of Findlay saw around 4,000 residents grow to 18,000 almost overnight. Findlay offered cheap or free natural gas to factories, and in 1887, 31 factories had relocated here, lured by the Chamber of Commerce's advertisement:,

"Free Fuel! Free Light! Free Sites! For the Manufacturers who will locate in Findlay, Ohio."

, By May of 1889, Findlay had added 17 churches, 15 school buildings employing 75 teachers, three daily and six weekly newspapers, four streetcar lines, and around 1,600 buildings., Fast Facts: , Dr. Charles Oesterlen, the "Father of Oil and Gas" in Findlay failed to convince even geologists that Findlay sat on natural gas and oil reserves. Finally, Oesterlen convinced a small group of investors to drill, and the rest is history!, The Karg Well was located on the south bank of the Blanchard River at the end of Liberty Street. In January of 1886, the Karg Well erupted with a pressure that kept it untamed for four months. The roar could be heard at least five miles away and the light could be seen from up to 40 miles away! Excursion trains began to travel to Findlay every day just so that people could witness the impressive sight!, In June of 1887, Findlay held a celebration with 58 gas arches and large banners on Main Street. That weekend, $12,000 worth of gas was used in the arches, which were kept burning day and night. This celebration was successful in luring many businesses to Findlay to take advantage of the Chamber's amazing offer., [Captions:] , 1. 1887 Jubilee Gaslights on Main Street. 2. 1887 Jubilee Gaslights on Main Street. 3. Faith Hope and Charity. 4. Midnight at Karg Well. 5. Dr. Charles Oesterlen., Natural gas well, Karg Well erupted for 4 months 1886, 31 factories relocated to Findlay for the free or cheap natural gas 1887