I took these pictures this weekend at this house they call the “Castle on the Hill.” I am interested in the first family that lived in the house the Shelton’s and Alberta Shelton McMurphy, It is so interesting to me I think I will tour the house again!!
Alberta Shelton McMurphy, the only child of Dr. T.W. Shelton and Adah Lily Lucas Shelton, was born in 1872, and moved into the “Castle on the Hill” upon its completion in 1888. Alberta received a certificate in piano from the Conservatory of Music in 1888, which at that time was not an official part of the University of Oregon, but became so in 1902. In 1891, at 19, Alberta journeyed with a Christian Endeavor youth group to Minneapolis to attend a Christian Conference where she met Thomas McMurphey. Alberta loved photography, and for a time worked at the Winter Photography Studio.
Although Alberta spent much of her time caring for her 6 children, she was also civic minded and involved in many organizations.
In 1899 Alberta was President of the Musical Alumni of the University of Oregon, and served as the first President of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Commercial Club in 1908. In 1909, Alberta, in conjunction with the City Beautification Project, dedicated the ornate electric fountain in Depot Park. She served as Worthy Grand Matron of the Eastern Star for Oregon 1919-20, served on the board of education for Eugene city schools, including a term as Board President in 1920-21. Alberta, for many years one of the most influential women in Eugene because of the vitality of her personality and through her many civic interests and activities, passed away in 1949.