Compiled by Betty Jane Wilson, society president
From Ford agency and economy travel promoter in 1925, the Murray-Heer Motor Co. expanded their services. On Dec. 29, 1928, the company held an open house for the public to inspect their new facilities and to celebrate their new "home" at 301 Broadway. The Friday, Dec. 28, 1928, Valley Falls Vindicator publicized the event, including the company's history.
"The Ford agency in Valley Falls was established back in the early 'teens and on July 4th, 1917, the firm of the Harman Agency, Ford Dealers in Valley Falls, was composed of W.B. Mitchell, Geo. Harman and Elmer Lewis, and on that date the firm moved into the fine modern garage on Broadway, now occupied by the Lewis Motor Co. Herbert Murray entered the employ of the firm at that time and Harold Trimble, at this time head mechanic for the Murray-Heer firm, entered the employ of the firm on July 1st, 1919 — they both having been connected with the Ford agency since. Effective January 1st, 1919, Mr. Mitchell sold his interests to Herbert Murray, and this partnership remained in effect until September 1, 1923, when Fred Heer became associated with Mr. Murray and the firm was then known as the Murray-Heer Motor Co. From the time the firm moved into the Harman building in 1917 to the present they have continuously handled the following standard products: Ford Sales and Service, Standard Oil Co., gasoline and oils; and Firestone tires and tubes.
On July 4th, 1917, the stock was valued at $300, while today (1928) it amounts to $10,000. At that time there were four people engaged in the business; while today there are ten — Herbert Murray, Fred Heer, Louise Burris in the office; Eldon Gordon in charge of the parts and stock room; Harold Trimble, head mechanic; Dallas Haskins, in charge of sales; and Leslie Green, Wallace Fowble, Cy Hayes in the mechanical department; and Cecil Lewis, service man."
Headline: Murray-Heer will hold open house Saturday, Dec. 29. Public is invited to inspect the plant. Gifts for the auto drivers and favors for the ladies.
"Saturday, Dec. 29th, Murray-Heer will hold 'open house' to their patrons and friends and the new home will be 'dedicated.' The erection of this fine structure means much to the city of Valley Falls. With its completion Valley Falls now claims one of the best, most modern fireproof Master Service Stations and Ford Agencies in northeast Kansas. Plans were selected after the architect had inspected numerous other buildings of like nature in the larger cities — the most convenient and accessible features were selected from each. Labor saving machinery has been ordered and much has been installed, while some is being made to order. The building itself consists chiefly of steel and cement; with excellent lighting facilities — both day and artificial. The drive-in service station is the last word in convenience — three large visible pumps have been installed for dispensing the three brands of gasoline products of the Standard Oil Co., while air and water are obtainable at three points on the north and east fronts. A large American Blower system of heating with electric radiators known as the Ventura-fin system, has been installed by the Summerfelt agency. The large boiler, located in the basement is known as the Red Flash Boiler — an enameled product of the highest quality. Hot and cold water is obtainable throughout the building, as well as in the Ladies' and Men's rest rooms. In the basement will be found an up-to-date shower bath for the employees. The indirect lighting system in the display room is especially effective."
This location is now the home of Aahh Some Blossom LLC with Julie Brink and Jo Tichenor, proprietresses.
The Valley Falls Historical Society Museum will be open from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 28. The special hours are being held for Grasshopper Falls Day. Free cider and doughnuts will be served from 9:30 to noon.
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