Today, many towns have lost touch with their original roots. This is especially true in the Dallas Fort-Worth area, which has experienced tremendous growth and transformation in the past few decades. Murphy originally had an economy based heavily on agriculture and farming. Although these activities no longer support its economy, Murphy still honors their vital role in starting the city's growth. There is even a special provision in the town's planning ordinances that ensures Murphy retains its rural character even as development continues across the area.
Murphy's Beginnings
Murphy was established in 1846. Like many surrounding towns, its growth was enabled through land grants. The first settlers encouraged to develop lands in Texas, called the city Old Decatur. The town's name was selected based on the hometown of the first settler in the area named C. McMillen. The town's establishment was followed shortly by the construction of the railway, which was called the St. Louis Southwestern. The introduction of the train also brought a name change to "Murphy" in honor of a landowner named William Murphy who donated some of his own land for the railroad's construction. His land was also used to build the first depot in town. Not long after the depot came along, a post office followed suit.
Unlike most area towns and cities, where the arrival of the train shifted the economy from agricultural to industrial, farming and ranching continued alongside modern development in Murphy. The area remained a hotspot for farmers and cattle ranchers from the 1880s through the 1950s. In addition to the availability of open land, the fact that the population declined following the Great Depression made farming even more critical. However, the community encountered a resurgence in the mid-1970s when the town's population size suddenly significantly expanded. This was due in large part to the construction of the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, which also brought job growth and an increase in population size to surrounding cities, too. The establishment of businesses in nearby towns also gave rise to Murphy's growth.
Activities in Murphy Today
Today, with its larger size and proximity to Dallas and Fort Worth, there are plenty of great events in Murphy around the year. With activities scheduled in all seasons, you always have something to look forward to.
Rainbow Trout Roundup
Each year towards the end of February, Murphy hosts an event called the Rainbow Trout Roundup. This event takes place at the city's complex pond. It is a free event hosted by the city that's designed for children, teenagers, and adults. Before the event, the pond is stocked with trout to ensure a fun and lucrative day of fishing. Since the event is quite popular, pre-registration is suggested online before the event begins.
Tunes, Tails, and Ales
Every May, Murphy holds its annual beer festival called Tunes, Tails, and Ales. This fun-filled event features craft beer made locally and imported. There are also food trucks on hand to provide perfect pairings for beer. Wine is also offered, and a crawfish boil adds a Southern-style flair to the ceremony. Live music accompanies the festivities, and a car show offers fun and entertainment for all. Children's activities are also on hand to make the festival a family-friendly event.
Maize Days
As if it's not already apparent that agriculture is still part of Murphy's identity, the Maize Days Festival solidifies that images. The Maize Days Festival is a celebration of the harvest season and the arrival of Autumn. It takes place in late September and is a free event hosted by the city. The festival includes an action-packed schedule of drinks, food, and live music. A kid's zone provides fun activities for the youngest participants, while vendors line the streets to sell food, jewelry, and other handmade goods.
Although it's now many years past its settlement day, Murphy still keeps its past and traditions alive and well. Many festive activities showcase the city's tight-knit community spirit and highlight the importance of nature in its citizens' daily lives. You can also honor the natural world in your own right by maintaining a healthy, vibrant lawn. Planting a water-wise garden with native species is another excellent way to help the local environment. However, knowing how to plant a beautiful garden and get a desirable lawn isn't always easy. For that reason, Lawn Love is in business to help you out. Call today to learn more and ask about our professional lawn care services.
