If the City of Auburn had a heartbeat, it would radiate from Toomer’s Drugs. Not only does the physical structure exist in the direct center of downtown, but the establishment has exuded Auburn tradition since 1896. Now boasting a menu of diner staples with a selection of Auburn Tiger memorabilia, the drugstore’s roots run deep in The Loveliest Village on the Plains.
How did Toomer’s Drugs come to be?
Toomer’s Drugs was, as the name implies, founded as a drugstore by Sheldon “Shel” Toomer, who played as a halfback on Auburn’s first football team. After graduating from Auburn University with degrees in both agriculture and pharmacy, Toomer opened the store with his stepfather, Benjamin D. Lazarus, using a $500 loan from John Reese, also known as “Old Drayman.” Toomer would go on to represent Lee County in the Alabama House of Representatives, in addition to being involved in countless civic and religious organizations throughout Auburn.
In 1999, the business went up for sale, and it was purchased by Don and Betty Haisten of Trussville—both of whom were pharmacists who graduated from Auburn. They became interested in fixing up the declining property once their four daughters started attending Auburn University in the early 1990s. Toomer’s was closed for major renovations for a time and was then reopened as a soda fountain-style restaurant and souvenir shop.
What makes Toomer’s Drugs so special?
Its convenient location at the center of Downtown Auburn makes Toomer’s Drugs the ideal place to gather—whether it’s for an ice cream on a summer afternoon or some new Tiger attire on a home game Saturday. It’s longevity as a mainstay among the changing landscape of Downtown Auburn secures it as a staple of Auburn tradition.
How about that lemonade?
Oh, and did we mention the Toomer’s Lemonade? Toomer’s signature lemon-based drink is one that draws attention from fans far and wide. In fact, in 2012, Toomer’s fresh-squeezed lemonade landed on the list of “100 Dishes to Eat in Alabama Before You Die” by the Alabama Tourism Department. Whether you’re new to town, or for some reason you’ve just never stopped by for a taste, there’s no better time than the present.
Being familiar with traditions like Toomer’s Drugs is a part of embracing the distinctive culture that is Auburn! Want to learn more? Read about rolling Toomer’s Corner and Tiger Walk!
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