The chemist's shop is a replica of Mr. Harold Emile Doo's shop in Halesowen Road, Netherton. After Mr. Doo's death the shop fittings and early stock were donated to the Museum by his family, and the original shop was acquired when the premises were modernised in 1979. Bricks of the correct age and type were saved from other old properties in the area to make the reconstruction as accurate as possible. They were made by J. King of Stourbridge in about 1879 when the original shop was built.
Mr Doo, known locally as 'Jack' became a well known local character. He suffered badly from arthritus, and because of his inability to move around easily stock control was very bad - the upstairs stock room and also the cellar were practically abandoned. This meant that a remarkable collection of unused stock, some of it dating back before 1929, has survived and has been passed on to the Museum. As you can see from the stock, it was common in those days for a pharmacist to produce his own remedies. Mr Doo had a considerable reputation for his home made medicines and pills.
Behind the chemist, a garden has been laid out with typical paths and plants. This is tended by volunteers and provides a pleasant and relaxing place for visitors.
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| Reference: | 528 |
| Keywords: | Harold 1979 King Stourbridge Jack 1929 Pills Medicine Welfare BCLM |
| Archive Ref: | Marketing Photograph Collection |
| Updated: | 17/8/2001 13:23:19 |