Oklahoma
Inducted: 2023
Murray Williams was an Oklahoma legend whose legacy in agriculture is etched in local, state, and national recognition. He was an innovator, a conservationist, and a relentless champion for the industry.
Tending to a sprawling family farming operation spanning over 6,500 acres, Murray understood the delicate balance between nurturing the land and reaping a bountiful harvest. He was more than a grower, he was a steward of the soil and guardian of water sources. His unwavering commitment to soil and water conservation set the standard for generations to come.
A trailblazer in the industry, he made history as the first grower in Oklahoma to embrace the cutting-edge pre-plant herbicide Treflan® in the late 1960s. This bold move paved the way for more efficient and sustainable farming practices. Murray was also a pioneer in implementing laser-guided drainage pipes on his land, revolutionizing land production in his area. He was also the first to construct tail-water pits, a groundbreaking move that allowed for the recycling of irrigation water. Murray also believed in giving back – he donated his land to Oklahoma State University for cotton test plots, a gesture that continues to advance cotton production in the state.
Beyond his feats in growing, Murray served the industry on a national scale. His dedication and leadership earned him seats on the National Cotton Council, the National Cotton Board, and the Cotton Incorporated Board of Directors. His influence rippled across the cotton community, shaping policies and practices.
For his immense contributions to the cotton industry, Murray Williams received prestigious accolades. In 1980, Cotton Farming Magazine recognized him as the United States Cotton Farmer of the Year. In 1983, Progressive Farmer Magazine honored him as the Man of the Year in Service to Oklahoma Agriculture.
His induction into the Cotton Research and Promotion Hall of Fame is a celebration of a lifetime of unwavering commitment to the power of innovation and conservation.