In 1861, John Fairbank purchased an Oil Springs property, which had a significant impact on Lambton County. In addition, he improved oil extraction by developing the jerker line system. With his experience and knowledge, Oil Springs and Petrolia drillers took their technology, tools, and expertise to 86 nations to assist in the development of new oilfields, therefore influencing the international oil business. In 1960, Lambton County opened a museum to interpret the region's oil history.

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