The interview took place in an unmentioned location on June 30, 1987 with Dr. Mel Steely and Ted Fitz-Simons.

This interview begins with a discussion about Thomas Murphy's early years, including his family, church, and school experiences. The topic of his childhood in Bremen also leads to discussion about the influence of the Sewell family in his hometown of Bremen, as well as the rise of labor unions there. He talks about his time at the military college and reminisces about where he was when he heard about Pearl Harbor. He then follows that by discussing his service in World War II and how it affected his life overall. Murphy continues the interview by talking about his entrance into law school and politics. After answering questions about his campaigning techniques, he begins to open up on his involvement with African Americans in the legislature and his views on integration. Dr. Steely asks about his relationship with governors, politicians, and whom he supported in elections (such as the gubernatorial election of 1966). He was a strong supporter of Jimmy Carter. He concludes the interview by talking about how he works within the office of Speaker in comparison to "the two Smiths."