Preparations begin for Murray’s 150th anniversary

Even though the anniversary of Murray’s founding isn’t for two years, preparations have begun to make this celebration better than the rest.

And, in honor of the town’s 150th anniversary, a history book will be published for anyone to purchase.

“Back in 1968, they wrote a 100-year book, so we’re doing a lot of continuation from our 100-year book,” said Joan Callison, Murray 150th committee member. “It’s going to include a lot of stuff about town history and individual community members.”

The book, which will be in the hands of those who purchased one in 2018, will tell the stories of 150 years of the history of Murray and its townspeople as a continuation of the Murray Centennial History Book.

“I did a centennial book 50 years ago,” Callison said. “We sold out, and people have wanted it ever since. It’s something for people, especially people that have lived here before and put their family history in. They enjoy reading about it and enjoy reading about the history of the town.”

The Murray Lions Jamboree sesquicentennial is scheduled for August 2018, and the books will be available then.

“Since last fall, we’ve got a company building the book, and this company has built a flyer and order form. We’ve done fundraisers to get this book going,” said Trevor Robins, Murray 150th committee chairperson. “We’ve got tons of mailings and flyers and social media to send out to people.”

The book is expected to take about a year to build, which is why the committee members have been preparing so early.

“It’s amazing, with social media and even mailings, how many people haven’t heard about it,” Robins said. “But, people can submit their story or not, whatever they want to do. So, we’ve got till the end of this summer for submissions.”

The Murray Sesquicentennial History Book is expected to be about 200 pages long and is only one part of the Murray celebration. Fundraising events are also scheduled for the book, including a walk.

The hardcover book can be preordered for $55.

Those who want to add a story or photo to the history book or would like more information can contact Robins at 641-414-2883, Callison at 641-447-2161, the Murray Library at 641-447-2711 or Marie Henry at 641-202-3615.