Although both Hudson and Stow had a considerable manufacturing base in shoes and textiles by 1870, Murdock's business was located in between the two industries, and catered principally to farmers. Murdock mainly sold groceries, but added other items as well. He received payment from his largely agricultural clientele in lard, eggs, fruit, butter, potatoes, cigars, and beans, in addition to cash. At times labor was exchanged for goods, especially by Reuben Derby, who worked frequently for Murdock between 1867 and 1869, and Rufus Temple's purchases at the store were almost entirely offset by Murdock's rent credits.