Gordon Murphy

Gordon Murphy Image
Location of Interview
Collection Name

Finding Friendship Oral History Project

Description

The Finding Friendship Oral History Project is a joint effort of the Friendship Museum and the Friendship Village School, directed by Sally Merrick, museum volunteer, and Gaylea Hynd, teacher. In 2003-2004 sixth grade students conducted taped interviews of three generations of lobstermen and women, as well as others associated with the lobstering industry. Printed copies of the interviews and CDs of the printed transcripts are available at the Friendship Museum in Friendship, Maine.

Interviewer
Date of Interview
10-07-2003
Transcribers

Douglas
Sally Merrick

Principal Investigator
Transcript
Biographical Sketch

Gordon Murphy, a lifelong resident of Friendship, was born on November 23, 1931, into a family deeply rooted in the town's history, spanning at least five generations. He was the only child of Wilbur and Hazel Burns Murphy. Gordon received his early education in Friendship, attending school until the 10th grade. He completed his studies in Waldoboro, graduating from Waldoboro High School in 1949. Gordon started lobster fishing in seventh grade. In 1951, Gordon joined the U.S. Army Reserves, and two years later, in 1953, he was called up for active duty during the Korean War. He served overseas until his honorable discharge in 1955. On November 26, 1953, Gordon married Joan Marie Lash. Beyond his career and family, Gordon had diverse interests and hobbies, including baseball and card games.  Over the years, he regularly attended both The Bible Speaks and Grace Bible Fellowship Churches.

Scope and Content Note
This oral history interview with Gordon Murphy, conducted by Douglas on October 7, 2003, provides insights into Murphy's life as a lobster fisherman in Friendship, where his family has resided for generations. Murphy began lobstering in the seventh grade and continued until his retirement. He discusses his motivation for becoming a lobsterman and the role of tradition in his family. The interview delves into various aspects of lobstering, including Murphy's boat, equipment, traps, bait, and daily routines. He shares details about setting and pulling traps, identifying his own traps, and the use of toggles. Murphy also mentions the impact of weather conditions on lobstering and how the industry has changed over the years. He expresses his preference for collecting the earnings and highlights his dislike for inclement weather. Throughout the interview, Murphy's deep devotion to his faith and church is evident.


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