Details for Audie Murphy Arena

Historical Marker — Atlas Number 5507018516

Data

Marker Number 18516
Atlas Number 5507018516
Marker Title Audie Murphy Arena
Index Entry Audie Murphy Arena
Address
City Stephenville
County Erath
UTM Zone 14
UTM Easting 572320
UTM Northing 3564442
Subject Codes sports topics; cowboys
Marker Year 2016
Recorded Texas Historic Landmark No
Marker Location Southwest corner of Dale and Fry
Private Property No
Marker Condition In Situ
Marker Size 18" x 28" with post
Marker Text Located in an area of Texas known for rodeos, the Audie Murphy Arena originated in Euless, Texas, on the property of car dealer Ray Woods. Woods met Audie Murphy on a defense bonds drive and instantly connected over their love of horses. The arena on Woods’ property and his association with Murphy attracted many cowboys to rodeos with Murphy as a featured guest. In 1952, Woods purchased a ranch in Erath County and the arena was moved to Stephenville where it hosted local rodeos and saw the origination of the Erath County Trail Blazers as well as participation in the Professional Rodeo Association. Murphy continued to appear at rodeos and events until the ranch was sold in the mid-1960s and arena was relocated.