F.J. Murphy & Son

Historic & Architectural Landmarks

Serving Springfield IL Since 1947

Markets We Serve

Historic & Architectural Landmark Service in Springfield IL

Perhaps this market sector we serve is most gratifying for us. Although infrequent, projects on these types of properties require a contractor with patience and determination to assign the right personnel to each phase of the job, to accept nothing but perfection, and to realize the inherent and intrinsic value these structures represent. For these kinds of projects, contractors are typically chosen not on the basis of price or political connections but exclusively on their documented ability to deliver a flawless job while understanding the significance and importance of the properties they are working on.

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If this is an emergency, please call 217.528.4081 for immediate assistance. We are available 24/7 through this number.

Our
Historic & Architectural Services

dana-thomas home historical preservation springfield illinois

The Dana-Thomas Home

The outstanding home designed by world-renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright for Susan Lawrence Dana, known as the Dana-Thomas Home in Springfield is an example of a significant property and one of our most important projects. When it underwent a total restoration, F.J. Murphy & Son, Inc. was selected to install all new Plumbing & HVAC, and to design and install a special concealed Fire Protection Sprinkler system to protect this treasured landmark. We were honored to have our skills and professionalism chosen for this job and we valued a chance to get to work on the protection of this property. Knowing we helped preserve a piece of local history means a lot to our team.

Lincoln-Murphy Connection

Going back quite a few years, John Murphy, plumber and father of the man for whom our company is named, twice did one of the more interesting jobs related to our family’s trade. In 1884, since plumbers worked with “lead” on a regular basis, John Murphy and another plumber were hired to open and then re-seal the lead coffin of Abraham Lincoln. Then, some 16 years later, in 1900, when the Lincoln Monument at Oak Ridge Cemetery was torn down and rebuilt, the services of John Murphy and his co-workers were once again called on. The task was to re-open the lead coffin to confirm that Lincoln’s body was indeed still there! When the confirmation was concluded for the group of 23 people, including the plumbers and the Guard of Honor, John Murphy and his co-worker then closed and re-sealed the coffin with the plumber’s lead for the second time before it was lowered 10 feet below the tomb floor. It was then covered with two tons of concrete and rests untouched in that spot today.

Abraham Lincoln Home Historic Site Springfield IL
Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum in Hannibal, Missouri

U.S. National Park Service

Following in the “Lincoln-Murphy connection,” F.J. Murphy & Son, Inc. was more recently chosen by the U.S. National Park Service to install new Plumbing, HVAC, and a special type of fail-safe and concealed Fire Protection Sprinkler system in Abraham Lincoln’s Home when it underwent a complete and major restoration. Another project of this type was at the Mark Twain Home in Hannibal, MO, where F.J. Murphy & Son, Inc. was once again selected to design and install a Fire Protection Sprinkler system, again specialized and concealed. These anecdotes illustrate the care and diligence the “entire Murphy organization” has always demanded and been recognized for in all of our work. Because we continually strive to maintain this reputation and pride, you benefit from hiring the best whenever we work for YOU!

The Importance of Historical Preservation

Preserving our rich history is a vital endeavor that transcends time. At F.J. Murphy & Son, Inc., we take immense pride in our role as stewards of historical preservation. By offering essential upgrades to plumbing, HVAC, and fire sprinkler systems, we contribute to the longevity and safety of our cherished historic buildings. These structures bear witness to the stories of our past, reflecting the architectural, cultural, and societal evolution of our communities. Our commitment to preserving these invaluable treasures not only safeguards our heritage but also fosters a sense of continuity, connecting generations and reminding us of the lessons learned from the past. This service is an essential part of ensuring that the tapestry of our history remains intact for future generations to appreciate and learn from.

Lincoln Home National Historic Site, Springfield Illinois

Your Questions Answered

Our General Information FAQ

After exploring our services, you might have some questions that need answers. That’s why we’ve put together a list of questions we are frequently asked to help provide you with information about our services at F.J. Murphy & Son, Inc. that may have gone unanswered. It is important to us that our clients have a clear understanding of what we offer. We’re dedicated to addressing your concerns because we believe that a clear understanding helps you make informed decisions when you require our services. Feel free to browse through the information, and if you happen to have any specific questions that are not answered below, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to provide you with the proper information you need.

Where are you located, and where do you work?

F.J. Murphy & Son, Inc. is located in West-Central Illinois at 1800 Factory Avenue, Springfield, Illinois 62702-2820. Springfield is about 190 miles southwest of Chicago, and 98 miles northeast of St. Louis along I-55. We are also located approximately 180 miles west of Indianapolis. While we’re focused on Springfield and Central Illinois, we provide some of our services throughout the rest of the state, and in portions of Missouri, Iowa and Indiana.

What are your business hours?

Our regular business hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Emergency services are available for customers 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, by calling our main phone number at 217.528.4081. If your call occurs after our regular hours, a call center representative will answer and relay your needs. 

What sort of guarantee do you give on your work?

It depends on the type of job performed. Our minimum guarantee on new construction is for one year. This applies to all materials and workmanship on the product(s) we install. We outline our guarantees in initial discussions, so you know from the outset what you are getting. Additionally, at the completion of the project, a formal, written guarantee is provided. Our repair service has a conditional guarantee on the workmanship, and various manufacturer guarantees on most repair parts.  

Are you legally licensed and if so, by whom?

We are licensed as follows:

  • Corporate Registration # F 2084-268-7 – IL Secretary of State, Corporations Div.
  • Plumbing Contractor License # 055-014-054 – IL Dept. of Public Health
  • Fire Sprinkler Contractor License # 26 – IL State Fire Marshall
  • Mechanical Contractor License – City of Springfield
  • IDHR Registration  # 99657-00 – Illinois Dept. of Human Resources
  • Numerous other licenses and registrations in states of IA, IL, IN, and MO counties, cities, and municipalities, as required.  
F.J. Murphy & Son

If this is an emergency, please call 217.528.4081 for immediate assistance. We are available 24/7 through this number.