Star Drug Store

in
Unknown.jpeg

Dropping in at the historic Star Drug Store for a hearty breakfast or, at mid-day, for a juicy burger and chocolate malt is one of my favorite things to do in Galveston. The Star Drug Store, with its old-fashioned soda fountain, stirs early 20th century nostalgia like no place else on the island.

Recognized as the oldest drug store in Texas, the original structure, located at 510 23rd Street, was built in 1886. It was constructed in wood but this changed when Charles J. Michaelis, a local druggist, bought the building in 1906. Michaelis hired contractor J.W. Zempter to convert the building to brick. This $15,000 renovation was completed in 1909.

By 1915, the Star Drug Store was fully operational, and a horseshoe shaped soda fountain counter was added to the pharmacy.

George Clampitt and Grady Dickinson purchased the store in the early 1920s nd operated the store until 1982. They maintained the integrity of the drug store, as well as altered history when the Star became the first desegregated lunch counter in Galveston.

Star_Drug_Store,_Galveston.jpg

The ownership of the Star Drug Store changed hands several times before a severe fire on Friday, March 13, 1998, closed the store until November 2001, when the Tilts family purchased and began restorations to the building.

This five-year project included rebuilding and restoring the facade, two apartments upstairs, the historical Coca-Cola neon porcelain sign and the drug store. The original horseshoe counter, complete with the embedded red tile star in its prominent facade, still reigns as the Star Drug Store's most recognized emblem.

On September 12, 2008, Galveston was hit hard by Hurricane Ike. The Star Drug Store was flooded with more than six and half feet of water, damaging most of the downstairs furniture, equipment and retail items. With the dedication and help of family, friends and co-workers, The Star Drug Store reopened three months later on December 17, to once again serve its beloved patrons.

Original soda fountain still takes centerstage at the Star Drug Store in Galveston.

Original soda fountain still takes centerstage at the Star Drug Store in Galveston.