McFaddin-Ward House Museum Hosts Lecture on Texas Citrus Industry

Lecture by Texas Citrus Mutual President Dale Murden to explore history, farming, and future of Texas citrus

Published on Feb. 3, 2026

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The McFaddin-Ward House Museum in Beaumont, Texas will host a free public lecture on Thursday, February 19th at 6:30 PM titled "The Juicy Story of the Texas Citrus Industry." The lecture will be presented by Dale Murden, the current president of Texas Citrus Mutual, and will cover the rich history, current farming practices, and promising future of Texas citrus orchards.

Why it matters

The Texas citrus industry is an important but lesser-known part of the state's agricultural heritage. This lecture aims to educate the public on the history and significance of Texas citrus, which has been grown in the state for generations despite challenges from the climate. As a fifth-generation Texan, Murden brings a personal perspective to the story of this resilient industry.

The details

Dale Murden, who has worked in the citrus industry since high school, will share his expertise and passion for Texas citrus. He will discuss the development of a grapefruit variety by Texas A&M scientists that is sweeter and redder than other grapefruits. Murden has held various leadership roles in the industry, including serving as president of Texas Citrus Mutual since 2014, where he advocates for citrus farmers and ranchers.

  • The lecture will take place on Thursday, February 19, 2026 at 6:30 PM.
  • The McFaddin-Ward House Museum has hosted this lecture series for several years.

The players

Dale Murden

The current president of Texas Citrus Mutual, Murden has worked in the citrus industry since high school and brings a personal, multi-generational perspective to the history and future of Texas citrus.

McFaddin-Ward House Museum

A historic landmark in Beaumont, Texas that offers tours, educational programming, and year-round events, including this lecture series on the Texas citrus industry.

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What they’re saying

“I'll be covering a complete history of the Texas citrus industry from a to z. I'm curious how many people even know Texas has a commercial citrus industry. If you're a Texan, and you're proud to be a Texan, you should know about the Texas citrus industry.”

— Dale Murden, President, Texas Citrus Mutual (The Record Newspapers)

“Farming is a freedom you can't find in an office. The ability to grow something and help feed a population is one of the most honorable things you can do. When you're passionate about something and you love something, why not stick with it?”

— Dale Murden, President, Texas Citrus Mutual (The Record Newspapers)

What’s next

The full lecture will be available for viewing on the McFaddin-Ward House Museum's YouTube channel, Facebook page, and website after the event.

The takeaway

This lecture highlights the rich history and importance of the Texas citrus industry, which has persevered through challenges to become an integral part of the state's agricultural landscape. By sharing this lesser-known story, the museum aims to educate the public and foster appreciation for Texas' diverse food production.