Nice story indeed. Perhaps one of the first astronomical faults in history?
The Smallest aperture I caught M 91 was a 8x30 binocular. I noted "unsure observation, popping at the right position, not steadily visible". The 16-inch brings out much more detail like a bright halo around an even brighter core with hints of the spiral structure. The 27-inch shows a spectacular view with easy spiral arms and tow companions in the neighborhood.