A few weeks ago, I ventured to do some research at the Rosenberg Library in Galveston, Texas. After a couple of hours, it was time to drive around. After making a couple of turns, in which I thought I was lost, I encountered the beautiful 1930's era Star Drug Store.
At that juncture, my stomach and nostalgic alter ego said it was time to stop the truck and head inside. As the door opened, a splash of Norman Rockwell hit my face. Tables cornering the restaurant and metallic stools caressing the counter.
After the awe settled in a bit, I ordered a hamburger well done with potato chips and a coca-cola. The burger was juicy and thick and the cola quenched the burger perfectly. As I sat at the counter, I began reading about the history of Star's.
The property was purchased by the Scanlan brothers, who came from Ireland/New York in 1853. After the Civil War, they got involved in the real estate business and in 1886 they built two buildings designed by local architect Nicholas Clayton, the Levy Building and Star Drug Store.
The original structure was made out of wood until 1906 when new owner Charles J. Michaels hired contractor J.W. Zempter who converted the edifice to brick. By 1917, the business was fully operational. At which point, the tile horseshoe shaped soda fountain counter was added.
A few years later, George Clampitt took over and remained the owner until 1982. During his tenure, Clampitt made a huge decision. During the 1950's, he became the first to desegregate his lunch counter.
Over the last two decades, ownership changed hands quite a bit. Today, it is owned by the Tilts family, who helped restore the facade, Coca-Cola sign and drug store. While Hurricane Ike caused 6.5 foot floods inside, it is now operational and ready to take on various customers.
After I finished, the first thing I did was run up the stairs. I ran into a slew of coca-cola signs. At least 10 signs surrounded the staircase.
As I walked around, I saw various objects ranging from Star Drug Store memorabilia to wind chimes. Downstairs on the way to the cashier, I ran into a few Elvis Presley lunchboxes and James Dean t-shirts.
All in all, the experience was a thrill. I ordinarily do not like getting lost, but while I was lost, God said, "Son, trust me." I did and got rewarded.
Star Drug Store is located off 510 23rd Street, Galveston, TX 77550.
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