On May 19, 1885, oil was discovered in Lima, Ohio, marking the beginning of one of the most significant oil booms in the Midwest. The Lima oil field quickly became one of the largest in the United States during the late 19th century. Initially, the oil was considered low quality due to its sulfur content, earning it the nickname "skunk oil." However, a breakthrough in refining technology by chemist Herman Frasch made the oil commercially viable. This discovery helped transform Ohio into a major oil-producing state and contributed to the growth of Standard Oil and the broader American energy industry.