The NPGA is giving propane the celebration it deserves. (image: hannibal.net)
Ever heard the old phrase “propane is like a fine wine”? No? Get ready, because you may very well be hearing that kind of talk around the water cooler soon – propane is turning 100 years old next year and it just keeps getting better! To prepare for the 100th anniversary of the invention of propane, the National Propane Gas Association (NPGA) has launched a centennial celebration website.
Propane was actually discovered in 1910 by Dr. Walter Snelling in rural Pennsylvania, falling in line with the keystone state’s rich tradition as the birthplace of many wonderful delights: the Ferris Wheel, the Slinky, bifocals, bubble gum, and the author of this blog post. However, it wasn’t practically installed in a home until May of 1912 when a farmer named John Gahring — who was also Snelling’s father-in-law — used this new liquefied petroleum gas to light his lamps and cook his dinner.
The history of how one man tinkering with a random tank of gasoline developed into an entire energy industry that provides heat and power to millions of people worldwide is pretty amazing and entertaining. We can all agree that calls for a party. So, representatives from 29 prominent propane companies across the United States have teamed up to form the Propane Centennial Celebration Task Force, to run the website and plan all the action.
Happy birthday, propane. (image: blogs.rrc.state.tx.us)
The site offers facts, news, a picture gallery, a history of propane, answers to frequently asked questions, and more. Can’t see yourself getting too jazzed about propane? You clearly haven’t seen the video gallery! The site will also keep us propane fans updated on upcoming festivities – the NPGA is organizing engaging and informational programs to boost interest in an industry that most people don’t know much about. More importantly, according to the rumor mill, they’re planning propane-related funtivities around the country! The NPGA is expected to unveil details at the Southeastern Convention & International Propane Expo coming next spring.
The theme of the celebration, “A Century of Solutions,” nods at propane’s distinction as a reliable solution for the world’s ever-changing energy needs. Though it remains unclear whether the celebration will feature a performance by the Black-Eyed Peas, despite multiple inquiries from Propane.pro editorial staffers, one thing is certain. You need to check out the website because this is one birthday party you won’t want to miss.