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The interior of
the historic pharmacy remains virtually unchanged from its opening in
1915, when it was termed the finest drug store in Illinois. The shop
retains its original cabinetry, booths, soda fountain, checkerboard
floor and decorative art glass. The pharmacy was operated by the Gustine
family until 1937, when it was sold to the Lewis family who operated it
for an additional 72 years. An elderly Edward Lewis, Jr. finally retired
and closed the pharmacy in February. The hope is to find a new owner
that would like to preserve this historic institution, but if an
appropriate buyer can not be found, the furniture and fixtures will soon
be sold at auction. While Canton is an Illinois Main Street community,
it does not currently have a local landmark program to protect historic
buildings from demolition.
Photo 3, 5: Courtesy of the Illinois
Historic Preservation Agency
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HOW CAN I HELP?
Local residents hope to find another pharmacist willing to take over the
business, however, all preservation-minded buyers and/or tenants should
contact:
Mark Rothert
Executive Director
Canton Main Street
Spoon River Partnership for Economic Development,
45 East Side Square, Suite 303
Canton, IL 61520
Phone:
309-647-2677 |
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