Detroit Symphony Orchestra: William H. Murphy Papers

Accession Number: 
UP002863
Extent: 
3 linear feet (1 OS)

This collection contains documents, clippings, photographs and a scrapbook from William H. Murphy (1855-1929). Murphy was a successful businessman engaged in the lumber industry, insurance and other business ventures. He and his wife, Laura (Hayward) Murphy, were early donors to the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, and he served as the president of the Detroit Symphony Society from 1920 until his death in 1929. In 1924, they donated a Cassavant Brothers pipe organ to the DSO. Called the “Murphy Organ,” it was dedicated and played for the first time on March 17, 1924. Many of the documents in this collection relate to the organ donation and to memorials for William and Laura Murphy.

Date: 
1920-1930
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