A BIT OF HISTORY
Families, Sweet Treats and Memories
Edit: We have been enlightened that the Archer and Joy Pharmacy was indeed the initial Pharmacy in this building. Descendents of the Joy family have reached out to us with fascinating information and this history section will be updated as this is acquired!
The Forest City Drug Store was originally started and opened by the France family in 1859 and remained under their ownership for over 90 years.
A doctor in St Joseph, MO by the name of Russell France, wrote to his cousin in Baltimore, MD in the 1850's and told him that Forest City was in need of a druggist. His cousin, John France, decided to come to Missouri and open the store.
Peg and Charlie Parsons purchased the building in the mid-1960's and operated the soda fountain and sundries store for many years.
Riverbend Extension Company now owns and operates the Forest City Drug Store Museum (Forest City Soda Fountain & Museum) located along Commercial Street in historic Forest City, MO. This 1859 Drug Store remains in its original state, with display shelving, apothecary drawers and leaded-glass cabinets intact . In 2010 the "fizz" was activated in our vintage soda fountain, bringing back a favorite childhood treat!
This is one of a very few working, turn of the century fountains in our four-state corner region, and its revival was made possible through a grant.
Join the nearly 1,000 visitors each summer who enjoy an ice cream treat from the original soda fountain while viewing the wonderful displays.
Original chairs (seats replaced) and marble top table.
The floors are original. 2"x6" boards, uniquely built with the 2" edges showing! So an incredibly thick floor.
