Ed’s Rexall Drug on 10th and Bancroft was likely the oldest independent pharmacy at the same location before it closed. Its history as a pharmacy dates back to at least 1912 and possibly earlier.
Starting in 1912, J. D. Williams opened Williams Pharmacy. It was Vanda’s Pharmacy operated by Charles N. Vandas for the next 10 years. In 1926, it started its long run as Riverview Pharmacy, which was operated by C. J. Veverka, James Kokrda, and then Edmund Czerwinski until 1958.
In 1959, Ed Kileen bought the long-standing drug store at 2701 S. 10th Street and renamed it Ed’s Rexall. It then became a labor of love for Rob Albers from 1978 to 2022, when he retired and closed it.
The middle storefront was the longtime home to Spring Inn Bar since at least 1960. Prior to that, it had been Joseph Trnka Meat Market, followed by Tom & Jerry’s grocery. The storefront on the southern end was home to a number of businesses, including Bancroft Beauty.
In addition to being a pharmacist, Rob was a keystone in his community and the owner of the building, which was constructed in 1900. After retiring, he has recently put the building up for sale.
I’d love to hear what you have to say so please feel free to comment. Until next time, keep exploring!
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