W.L. Campbell opened the store around 1891. It was located at 10 Holland St. West. He was the son of William Campbell, grain dealer, and brother of Dr. L.H. Campbell. He was born in Bradford. W.L. attended the Ontario College of Pharmacy, in Toronto, and graduated in 1891, winning the College medal for general proficiency. He was also an expert lacrosse player, until a knee injury kept him from playing. He then took over duties as the team's secretary-treasurer, and the team has since won two provincial championships and one inter-championship. He is also a member of the gun club.
"This week's historical photo was submitted by Lew Campbell of RR 2, Bradford, whose father, W.L. Campbell (behind the counter) operated the drug store on Holland Street now occupied Ritchie's Variety Store. Fred C. Cook, standing in front of the counter, worked for Mr. Campbell for several years, intending to become a druggist. But he went into the insurance business instead. Mr. Campbell owned the drug store in Bradford for 57 years. He graduated from the Ontario College of Pharmacy in 1891, a silver medalist in his class."
A collection of items from when W.L. Campbell Drug Store was in operation and showcases the types of items that would have been sold there/the services offered. Items include lotions, powders, photo printing envelopes.
Bradford Witness newspaper article from 1974 about the closing of Ritchie's Patent Medicines. The business before being Ritchie's was W. L. Campbell's Drugstore. "During the 57 years it was in the Campbell name, the pharmacy also shared its quarters with William's father's lumber and grain business, as well as the doctor's office of his brother Lewis."
"This week's historical photo was submitted by Lew Campbell of RR 2, Bradford, whose father, W.L. Campbell (behind the counter) operated the drug store on Holland Street now occupied Ritchie's Variety Store. Fred C. Cook, standing in front of the counter, worked for Mr. Campbell for several years, intending to become a druggist. But he went into the insurance business instead. Mr. Campbell owned the drug store in Bradford for 57 years. He graduated from the Ontario College of Pharmacy in 1891, a silver medalist in his class."
