Hanna-Robinson-Richey Drugstore
Chico, Wise County, Texas
Marker Inscription
Alexander Virgil Hanna (1860-1921) erected this native sandstone structure to house his drugstore in 1893. He provided office space in this building for a doctor, lawyer, jeweler, and the first telephone switchboard in Chico. Hanna sold the business in 1920 to Rueben R. Robinson (1872-1955), whose daughter and son-in-law, LaBeth and William Marston Mead (d. 1968) continued to operate the store after his death. It was purchased in 1973 by Bobby and Frances Richey.
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Alexander Virgil Hanna raised this native sandstone building in 1893 to house his drugstore in Chico, renting space to a doctor, lawyer, jeweler, and the town's first telephone switchboard. The business passed in 1920 to Rueben R. Robinson, whose daughter and son-in-law carried it on, and the property changed hands again in 1973. The solid stone structure remained a hub of small-town commerce and communication across three families' stewardship.
Why it matters
A single stone storefront that held a druggist, professionals, and the town's first switchboard shows how modern conveniences and services first reached rural North Texas under one roof.
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Related people
- · Alexander Virgil Hanna
- · Rueben R. Robinson
- · William Marston Mead
Themes & tags
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