Dalton Pharmacy celebrates 120 years of operation in Slocumb, Alabama

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Alabama Retail Association
Joe Dalton, Rick Brown (presenting bronze plaque for outside of the store) and Tyler Dalton in front of what used to the soda fountain area of Dalton Pharmacy. (Alabama Retail Association)

Last week, Dalton Pharmacy from Slocumb, Alabama in Geneva County received the Alabama Centennial Award from the Alabama Retail Association (ARA).

Dalton Pharmacy turns 120 years old

Founded in 1903 by Jep Paul “J.P.” Dalton in downtown Slocomb, the family-owned pharmacy celebrated its 120th year of operation with the retail association at its 141 S. Dalton Street location.

“We started out as Dalton Drug Co., a small family-owned pharmacy. Over time, we changed our name to Dalton Pharmacy and expanded our services to include a broader range of healthcare products and services. Those services include vaccinations, over-the-counter medications and delivering to customers unable to leave their homes.

~ Joe Dalton, the third-generation owner and pharmacist in a ARA news release

Dalton Pharmacy expands to 9 location

Today, the Dalton Pharmacy group includes eight pharmacies in southeast and east-central Alabama and a ninth pharmacy in Double Springs in north Alabama. 

The Slocomb, Abbeville, Hartford, Troy and Opp stores operate under the Dalton name. The Dadeville, Headland, Luverne and Double Springs locations operate under other names. The group employs more than 50 people.

“We have ambitious plans for further expansion into new markets and communities,” Joe said. “We are actively exploring opportunities to  open or purchase additional pharmacy locations. Our aim is to reach underserved areas, preserve small mom and pop pharmacies and support local communities.”

~ Joe Dalton, the third-generation owner and pharmacist

Four generations of Daltons

Dalton Pharmacy
J.P. Dalton and Charles Dalton in the same area of the store in earlier photo. Note pot bellied stove in the background.(Alabama Retail Association/Dalton Pharmacy)

Four generations of Daltons have worked for the company. Seven family members have become pharmacists.  The latest family member to join the profession is Tyler Dalton, Joe’s son. He earned his pharmacy doctorate in 2016. Tyler’s mother, Jodi, who is also a community pharmacist in Auburn.

“My mother and father continue to inspire and motivate me every single day,” “It is truly an honor to follow in my family’s footsteps.”

By becoming a “Centennial Retailer” – Dalton Pharmacy received a bronze plaque to be placed outside in front of the store and a certificate for display inside from ARA.

“For a business to survive the dramatic changes of the past century is a remarkable achievement. It is fitting to celebrate the enduring first-century contributions Dalton Pharmacy has made to Slocomb and the other communities it now serves.”

~ Alabama Retail Association President Rick Brown

In addition to Dalton Pharmacy, other Alabama Centennial Retailers include, Saia’s in Homewood, The Bright Star in Bessemer, Books-a Million and many more.

Have you ever visited Dalton Pharmacy? Tell us on social media your favorite memory by tagging us at @thebamabuzz

Pat Byington
Pat Byington
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