October in the Ohio Valley is a beautiful and vibrant time of year, marked by a variety of seasonal changes and events.

Throughout the month, you can generally expect:

Colorful Leaves- October typically brings stunning fall foliage as the leaves change color, showcasing its beautiful trees with shades of red, orange, and yellow,

Harvest Season- October is a prime month for harvesting pumpkins and apples. Many local farms offer pick-your-own experiences.

Festivals and Events- There are many fall festivals celebrating the harvest season, like pumpkin patches and corn mazes.

Halloween Celebrations- Halloween festivities ramp up such as the attractions at the former WV Pen, featuring haunted houses, ghost tours, and costume parades. Some homes are decorated with autumn and Halloween-themed decorations.

Farmers’ Markets- October is a great time to visit farmers’ markets, where you can find seasonal produce, homemade goods, and fall-flavored treats, such as pumpkin spice everything!

Cooler Weather- As summer fades, temperatures begin to drop, bringing cooler, crisp air.   Sweater weather sets in (finally) making it a great time for outdoor activities.

And speaking of cooler weather, now is the time to prepare for the colder winter months ahead by making sure your propane tank is filled and ready to operate.

And no one knows more about Propane than the folks at the Marshall County Co-op. 

But before we get into that, how much exactly do you know about propane?  We would like to share a little of propane’s history with you. 

Propane was first discovered by French chemist Marcellin Berthelot during experiments with hydrocarbons. He realized that this gaseous compound could be produced from the fractional distillation of petroleum.

In the 1910’s, the use of propane began to grow commercially. The primary use at this time was in the production of chemicals. Additionally, it was used as a lighter fluid for torches and cigarette lighters.

In the 1920’s, the American Gas Association recognized propane as a new fuel source. The propane was separated from natural gas and subsequently compressed and stored for easier transportation.

During World War, propane gained popularity as an alternative fuel due to gasoline shortages. Its use expanded into agriculture and commercial applications, offering a reliable source of energy for tractors and heating.

Post-War- (the 1950’s-1960’s) – After the war, propane became a common fuel source in rural areas where natural gas pipelines were limited. It was widely adopted for residential heating, cooking, and appliances.

1970s- The energy crisis of the 1970’s led to a renewed interest in propane as a viable, cost-effective fuel alternative. Its application expanded into other sectors, including transportation (e.g., propane-powered vehicles) and industry.

1990’s – Propane began to be recognized for its environmental benefits compared to other fossil fuels. Users appreciated that it produces fewer emissions and has a high energy content.

2000’s – Advances in technology allowed for improved methods of production, storage, and transportation. Propane has been included in discussions about alternative fuels and renewable energy sources.

Current Day- Today, propane is used in a variety of applications, including residential heating, outdoor grills, and industrial processes. It continues to be viewed as a cleaner alternative to gasoline and diesel fuels, particularly in agriculture, logistics, and construction.

Propane has a rich history that reflects advancements in chemistry, technology, and fuel usage. Its versatility and efficiency make it a popular choice in modern energy solutions, contributing to cleaner and more sustainable energy practices.  That is why the Marshall County Co-Op is so proud to offer propane to many West Virginia households! 

To find out more about Propane or to order yours, please call the Marshall County Co-op and ask for Dave in the Propane Department.  Call (304) 845-2375!