At Murchison Historical Society the afternoon began with a mural unveiling along one of the centre's outside walls.
Created by local artist Jane Spencer, the four panels depict reactions to noise and odour as the meteorite hit Murchison on Sunday, September 28, 1969.
The crowd then ventured inside the historical society building for the launch of Space Gem, a book written, researched and compiled by local woman Margaret Lock.
Ms Lock said the book took about three years to complete and combined scientific research with personal recounts from local people.
“There were many sleepless nights, waking up and working on my laptop at 3am,” she said with a laugh.
Murchison Historical Society president Kay Ball said all profits from the book would be put back into the organisation.
“We've had really great feedback about the book and it was good to see such a large turnout here today,” she said.
“It's the story of the people, the story of the town and that's why it's so important.”
The 50th anniversary celebrations will continue across the long weekend from Friday, September 27 to Sunday, September 29.
For more information and a full list of events, visit the Murchison Meteorite website at https://murchisonmeteorite.com.au/