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History
In 1880, Randolph Cannon purchased the business at 401 Broadway which had been previously established by R.T. Elsberry. In the history of Elsberry, written by U.S. Representative Clarence Cannon a native of Elsberry, it is stated that “the store and stock of goods was moved from Nelson (another town in the area) to the corner of Broadway and Fourth Street (its current location)”sometime in 1879.
Later the business was passed to J. Brian Cannon who was a pharmacist. As best as it can be determined, the soda fountain was installed in the early 1940’s when Liquid Carbonic fountains were common combinations with pharmacies. In 1959 Nick and Virginia Riffle purchased one- half interest in the business and the name was changed to Cannon and Riffle Drug Store. When J. Brian Cannon retired he sold his interest to Clarence Riffle (brother of Nick) and the name changed to Riffle Brothers. After Clarence and Nick passed away, Virginia kept the store until December 1974. The building was purchased by Hazel Pratt in 1974 and the inventory sold to Lee and Helen Ligon who operated Ligon’s Gift Shop until 1976. Hazel Pratt subsequently opened Pratt’s Hallmark and operated it until 1986. Ronnie and Arlene Vaughn purchased the building and inventory at that time and opened Vaughn’s Hallmark. This venture served the community until it’s closing in 2002. The building remained empty until 2004 when Joe and Bobette Shipman purchased the building. Working with Collins Construction, Wes and Marcia Fakes restored the interior and soda fountain opening the current business, 4th Street Fountain in 2004.
The building at 401 Broadway has been honored by the Lincoln County Historical Society as a historically preserved site. The cabinetry on either side of the store as well as the ceiling fans, flooring, soda fountain, counter and stools are all original to the building. The outside awning is a reproduction of the awning in the early1940’s. A former coal bin at the rear of the store boasts a quaint private room now being utilized for small group gatherings.
We hope all of you enjoy the abmiance of the 4th St. Fountain and find it a comfortable, inviting place to shop, eat and reminisce.