The Anthem That Defines the Glass City
Toledo is a city with a rich history and a vibrant cultural identity. One of the most enduring symbols of this identity is the song "We're Strong for Toledo." Composed by Joe Murphy in 1906, this spirited anthem has become synonymous with the city itself, capturing the pride and resilience of Toledoans across generations.
The Origins of the Song
The early 1900s were a time of growth and change for Toledo. As the city expanded and its industries thrived, the community looked for ways to express its burgeoning identity. It was during this time that Joe Murphy, a co-owner of the Citizen's Ice Company and composer, created "We're Strong for Toledo."
According to this post from the History Detective on oldwestendtoledo.com (it's toward the bottom of the page), the Citizen's Ice Company was incorporated by Joe and a group of successful Toledo businessmen the same year Joe wrote his song.
"It was located at 25 South Erie near downtown. In the winter ice blocks were cut from Wamplers Lake in Michigan, hauled to Toledo, and stored in sawdust for later use. Early refrigerators were stocked with smaller blocks of ice delivered to the customer's door first by horse wagons and later, trucks. According to the 1910 Polk City Directory, Jay Secor was the president and lived at 2035 Collingwood Avenue (now-Boulevard). His home, today known as Mansion View, is a well-known bed-and-breakfast and conference center. George Sawkins, VP, was a well-known grocer serving the growing west-end district of Toledo and Joseph Murphy, secretary, was a meat retailer along with William Finch doing business as Murphy & Finch. Related by marriage, Mr. Sawkins and Mr. Murphy operated storefronts at 2151 and 2153 Ashland avenues at Bancroft. Mr. Sawkins lived at 2352 Fulton and the Murphy family lived at 614 Virginia. The treasurer was Isaac Knisely of 2133 Park Place off Ashland."
In 1909, three years after composing the song, Murphy formed his Ice House Quartette to bring the anthem to life. The quartette was a versatile group, performing everything from grand opera numbers to barbershop harmonies. Their talent and charm took them far beyond Toledo, with performances across the United States and even a European tour in 1927. During their travels, the Ice House Quartette sang on the radio in Paris, where their program was announced in seven languages, showcasing the global appeal of their music.
The Ice House Quartette
The Ice House Quartette was a unique and eclectic ensemble. Ranging in size from four to forty members, the group was known for its distinctive performances "in the garb of the iceman." This playful and memorable image, combined with their wide-ranging repertoire, made them a hit with audiences wherever they went.
Murphy and his quartette were not just performers; they were ambassadors of Toledo's spirit and culture. Their music, especially "We're Strong for Toledo," resonated with people, capturing the essence of a city that took pride in its strength and unity. And what can I say about Joe Murphy? The man had an amazing life story. Check out this package his great grandson, Jeff Cole shared with me. You will be amazed. He was a man of many talents and even more stories, a larger-than-life character whose life reads like a screenplay waiting to happen. Born with a natural gift for music and a flair for the dramatic, Murphy was more than just a composer; he was a showman, a cultural ambassador, and a Toledo legend.
Murphy’s journey began in the heart of Toledo, where his love for music blossomed. But it wasn’t just his musical talent that set him apart—it was his ability to capture the spirit of a city in song. In 1906, when he composed “We’re Strong for Toledo,” he wasn’t just writing an anthem; he was crafting a piece of Toledo’s identity. The song resonated with the people because it reflected their pride, resilience, and sense of community.
A Lasting Legacy
"We're Strong for Toledo" became much more than just a song; it evolved into a symbol of the city's enduring spirit. For years, the anthem was passed down through live performances, until the song was finally published on a record. This milestone ensured that the song would be preserved for future generations, allowing it to continue inspiring Toledoans long after Murphy and his quartette had hung up their iceman uniforms.
Over the years, the song has been performed at countless events, from high school football games to city parades, and it continues to be a beloved part of Toledo's cultural fabric. In the 1950s the Toledo Chamber adopted the song for a campaign and Lamson's Department Stores circulated buttons with the song's title, further cementing its place in the city's history.
Continuing the Tradition
As Toledo continues to evolve and grow, "We're Strong for Toledo" remains a touchstone for the city's residents. It serves as a reminder of where Toledo has been and where it's headed, celebrating both the challenges overcome and the bright future ahead.
So the next time you hear those familiar lyrics, take a moment to reflect on the rich history behind the song. Whether you're a lifelong Toledoan or a newcomer to the city, "We're Strong for Toledo" is a powerful expression of the pride and resilience that define this great community.
Here are a few links of interest to help round out our story of Joe Murphy and his Toledo anthem. Enjoy!