The Apple Sculpture at The Old Depot

The Apple Sculpture at The Old Depot—a new landmark and photo op that celebrates our community’s rich Apple Festival tradition.

The History Behind the Apple Ornament – A Legacy That Began in 1967

The Apple Ornament, which inspired the sculpture, was first designed and produced in 1967 at the local aluminum plant, then owned by Phillips Dodge. Thanks to the historical accounts of Daniel Ripley, a 31-year Penn Aluminum employee, and memories from Jack Norris and Fred Evans, the rich history of the Apple is now preserved:

The original design was created by Kenny Bell (Draftsman) and Glen Greg (Die Shop Manager), with the first die built by Spartan Tool and Die.

Ornaments were extruded into 12-foot sticks, aged for hardness, cut into ½-inch pieces, and anodized in red, green, gold, and black.

Phillips Dodge donated the ornaments to the Murphysboro Apple Festival in exchange for a barrel of apple cider for employees.

A second die, built in 1971 by United Tool and Die, is still in use today at Penn Aluminum International, which purchased the plant in 1982.

After decades in storage, Jamie Walker organized a group of Penn Aluminum employees in 2021 to revive the tradition, bringing back the production of the iconic Apple ornaments for the Apple Festival Parade.

The new sculpture represents more than history—it’s a testament to community collaboration. The combined efforts of Revitalize 62966 and Murphysboro Main Street not only celebrate Murphysboro’s heritage but also contribute to the town’s revitalization efforts.