Murrays Auto Parts was a premier distributor and retail chain of auto parts in the Upper Midwest. There were 112 stores total at one time operating in around the Michigan, Illinois and Ohio areas. Within the last few years, the Murray's name was purchased by another company and is no longer in the area operating under the name "Murray's".
Murray's had not always been an auto-parts retailer. They started-out as a jewelry, toy and hardware store, founded by Sara and Irving Pitt in the 1950's and grew from there.
Murray's logo on a classic truck
The auto parts business began in 1972 and grew from there. The single store was founded by Al and Murray Pitt and it grew into a multi-state empire. They catered to the do-it-yourself or "driveway" mechanic as well as professional mechanic. Many of those "driveway" or "backyard" mechanics had these roles on the weekends and evenings when they could work on their projects.
The location in Redford was known for fine jewelry, right along with the auto parts and automotive accessories. For many folks, the only place they really bought auto parts was from Murray's Discount Auto Store. Some folks even bought their wives a first or second engagement ring from their diamond shop as well. These guys truly knew cars, at least of the Domestic variety, and could test your old parts to see if they're bad. They'd help you find whatever part it is you need, and sometimes even come outside and take a look at your car, if they were able to repair it on the spot.
A former Murray's store
They eventually moved their corporate headquarters elsewhere and had a good business model for many years until the economy worsened and they had to sell the company to a larger automotive group, who continued the traditions set in-place by the Pitt family.
Murray's was a "Metro Detroit Original" and anyone that has been around the area for a few years knew of the Murray's name as a place to get good parts at decent prices with a staff of friendly and knowledgeable people. All that remains of the Murrays name is the memories....as well as this geocache.
But those that know.... remember that "Murray was here".