One of my favorite places on Planet Earth is Murphy's Tavern on North Nevada, just around the corner from my studio. Family owned for generations, it's an honest to God dive-bar in the best sense of the word, and a real Colorado Springs institution. The first time I ever got stinkin' drunk was at Murph's (and I was way underage, don't tell anyone!). I've been going there since I was a freshman in college. It's really kind of old and crappy, and it has the geniune appeal of a blue collar bar but without the scary factor. The place still reeks of decades of cigarette smoke, even though they banned smoking in bars here a couple of years ago. The walls are painted institutional green. You definitely want to be drunk to use the restrooms (unless you're not picky about these things). There's a horseshoe bar covered in formica that's about a thousand years old. They've had the same bartenders forever. It's still only about $1.50 for a draw at Murph's. I rarely have to pay for more than the first round though, especially when Ron's behind the bar. In the 25+ years I've been going there, the place has barely changed. I love that.
Murphy's has been a favorite gathering place for me and most of my friends since college, and I think that statement applies to so many other groups of friends who are fortunate enough to live in Colorado Springs. It's sort of a home away from home. When my friend Dave died unexpectedly two summers ago, his wake was held at Murphy's. He would have liked that!
On Saint Patricks Day, Murph's a popular spot. I shot this from across the street a couple of hours ago. I don't think anyone noticed me, they were too busy enjoying their beer. I think I can see my friends Kathy McQ and Jerry M through the windows.
