Murphy Varnish Works

Murphy Varnish Works is a brick and stone building on McWhorter Street in Newark marked by symmetrical designs and rusticated masonry. The facade displays decorative embellishments above windows and doors characteristic of Renaissance Revival architecture.

Franklin Murphy established this varnish factory in 1865, operating continuously until 1950 as Newark's largest facility of its kind. The operation shaped the city's industrial history across decades.

The building reflects the era when Newark was a major production hub. Today visitors can see how factory structures have been adapted into homes while preserving their original character.

The building now houses 46 rental apartments following a comprehensive 2016 renovation. Visitors can view the exterior architecture and original features from the street.

The building emerged from a industrial complex that once sprawled across significant acreage and stands as the last surviving structure from Newark's former paint and varnish manufacturing sector. This preservation shows how an entire industry that defined the city now exists only in isolated buildings.

Location: New Jersey

Architectural style: Renaissance Revival architecture

GPS coordinates: 40.72440,-74.17060

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:02