Bertie Neu, dressed as Rosie the Riveter, stands with a life-size cutout of Audie Murphy, which will be on display June 21 at the Bain-Honaker House. Courtesy photo

Farmersville is set to honor its most famous hometown hero as Audie Murphy Day returns Friday and Saturday, June 20–21. A full slate of events celebrating patriotism, military service and local history is planned.

From solemn ceremonies and a marching band parade to historic exhibits and a French documentary premiere, this year’s celebration marks two major milestones: the 80th anniversary of Murphy’s homecoming and what would have been his 100th birthday.

Adding a creative twist to the weekend lineup, the Farmersville Historical Society will host two special exhibits Saturday, June 21, at the historic Bain-Honaker House, 108 College Street, from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Highlights include the debut of Women of World War II (WoWWII!), which honors the contributions of women both at home and abroad during wartime. In true 1940s spirit, guests are invited to come in costume for the inaugural Murphy-era Costume Contest.

“This is a rare opportunity for the public to see authentic memorabilia, rare photos and artifacts from Audie Murphy’s life and World War II,” said Historical Society member Bertie Neu. “And keep watch… you may see Rosie the Riveter or some of her wartime pals roaming the halls of the Bain-Honaker House!”

Prizes will be awarded for most patriotic, most authentic and most creative attire. Attendees can also pose for photos with a life-size cutout of Murphy and enjoy guided or self-guided tours of the home. Donations are welcome to help the Society preserve its local historical treasures.

Events begin Friday evening with the Audie Murphy Exhibit at the Farmersville Heritage Museum, 107 Farmersville Parkway, open from 5 to 7 p.m. At 7 p.m., the community is invited to 135 S. Main Street for the Texas premiere of “Audie Murphy: From Colmar to Hollywood,” a French documentary offering a European perspective on Murphy’s heroism and postwar film career.

Saturday kicks off with a veterans’ breakfast and registration from 7:30 to 9 a.m. at First Baptist Church’s Warehouse Student Center. The Audie Murphy Day parade rolls through downtown at 9:30 a.m., followed by a formal ceremony at the Onion Shed at 10:45 a.m. A veteran’s luncheon will follow at noon back at the Warehouse.

Throughout the afternoon, visitors can explore Audie Murphy and Sister City exhibits at the Farmersville Heritage Museum and view rare artifacts at the Charles Rike Memorial Library from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

This year’s celebration will also feature a delegation from Fort Stewart, Georgia, home of the Third Infantry Division, which Murphy served in. They’ll be joined by the Fort Cavazos Sergeant Audie Murphy Club and a marching band.

Veterans and parade participants are encouraged to register in advance at audiemurphyday.org or by calling 972-784-6846 during city business hours.

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