An Industry Leader Since 1853

Murdock Manufacturing has been the benchmark in the drinking fountain and water hydrant industries for nearly 170 years. In 1853, when most people were still drawing water from communal wells, John G. Murdock, Sr. founded Murdock Manufacturing in Cincinnati, OH, and began manufacturing frost-free hydrants to deliver water throughout the country.

Committed to Durability and Longevity

Murdock’s reputation for high-quality, well-made products lead to our inclusion in high-profile Depression-era projects by the Tennessee Valley Authority (1933), the Civilian Conservation Corps (1933), and the Works Progress Administration (1935). Murdock’s M-1776 Old Style was one of the very first water fountains to exist, and it’s still manufactured in our factory today. While fabrication methods might have changed with the invention of new technology, our commitment to durability, longevity, and style remains unchanged. In fact, many of our century-old models are still in operation today and can still be repaired with original parts.

Family Ties

Bob Murdock, the current president, represents the fifth generation of Murdock family guidance over the company. The family isn’t just limited to the Murdocks, however. Morris Group International (MGI), which Murdock joined in 2006, is in its second generation of Morris family leadership. A number of other MGI divisions are also run by their founding families, and many other family members work throughout the company.

On the strength of being a family-owned company, Bob Murdock says, “We are proud to be a U.S. manufacturer, engineering and building our own products from the ground up every single day. We are an independent company which means we do not answer to private equity or outside investors; we answer only to our employees, our sales teams and to our customers.”

Industry Favorites

Due to their exceptional reputation for durability, longevity, build quality, and aesthetics, Murdock products are found all around the world: in national, state, and municipal parks; on campgrounds; in cemeteries; in schools, stadiums, and military bases; golf courses, beaches, and sports facilities; and many more places besides.

We remain an industry leader by constantly updating our products to stay ahead of legal requirements and market trends. All Murdock products are lead free.

Celebrating the company's 170th anniversary in 2023, President Bob Murdock reflected on the Murdock legacy and looked forward on new innovations: "If you had the opportunity to go out there and be in a park, chances are you were out there with your family, at a picnic, and Murdock was there in the picnic shelter. Having that long history of involvement with the public is, more than anything else, why the Murdock brand remains strong. As we continue the innovation, all the things that we’re doing to make it a much better product, we’re building on the legacy of what it was in the very beginning."

To hear more of his insights into the company's history and greatest strengths, click here.