Return of the 'Mighty McGugin' Marker
A historical plaque that vanished has been returned to Mt. Pleasant Township, commemorating a significant event in 1882.
In March of that year, the Niagara Oil Co. was searching for oil and gas on the farm of Alexander McGugin. This was 23 years after the first gas well was drilled 120 miles north in Titusville.
The company eventually struck gas over 2,000 feet beneath the surface, which caught on fire and burned for two years. The spectacle drew people from miles around, who would often have picnics while watching the flames.
The site was nicknamed "The Mighty McGugin."
A 1965 article in The Washington Observer, written by columnist W.A., mentioned this event.
Author's summary: Historical marker returns to Mt. Pleasant Township.