Boyne City’s Historical Past

Categories: Uncategorized

By Boyne City Main Street on May 14, 2025

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Continuing our series on historical markers – this marker is a tribute to the Medicine Shop and is located at 121 Water Street.

Before drugstores became common, people relied on patent medicines to treat various ailments. One popular remedy of the time was Thedford’s Black Drought, which was believed to cure everything from bad blood to headaches.

In 1896, a medicine shop was established at this location. In 1905, W.A. Hyslop, Kennard Gerne, and Dr. W.H. Marshall purchased the store as a joint venture. The following year, they constructed a new building and renamed the business Hysop’s Drugs. By 1910, the store had introduced what was considered the world’s most modern soda fountain.

In 1923, Mr. Gerrie acquired full ownership of the store, renaming it Central Drug. The name remained unchanged until 1940, when Mr. Gerrie sold the business to his sons, Robert and Revo. They then rebranded it as Gerrie’s Drug and Jewelry Store.

In 1982, Huff Pharmacy was founded by Robert “Bob” Huff, and it was truly a gem in our small town. Robert Huff passed away September 29, 2019, and the pharmacy closed soon after. It will always be remembered fondly by those who had the privilege of being their customer.