Inscription
One of the largest and most scientifically advanced petroleum refineries of its time occupied 47 acres along Cherry Run immediately northwest of this site. It was placed in operation by chemist Jon Bruns and the Lodovici Brothers in 1862. Named for the naturalist Alexander von Humboldt, it incorporated such innovations as a 2 mile oil pipeline, oil -fired boilers, and a means of producing aniline dye.
The refinery remained in operation until 1868.
Location
Sources
More markers in Venango
Venango Path
A major Indian path from the Forks of the Ohio (Pittsburgh) to Venango (Franklin) was located just west of here.
The Crawford Family
Emlenton, PA
Eben Crawford (1821-1897) was an iron foundry operator and early oil and gas producer.
Old Garrison
Franklin, PA
Built in 1796 to replace Fort Franklin.
Fort Venango
Franklin, PA
To assert control over the area, Fort Venango was built near this point by the British in 1760.
Pithole
Created in 1865 by the discovery of oil.
