Barker’s Pharmacy

Founded in 1885, Barker’s Pharmacy is one of Louisiana’s oldest continuously operated pharmacies. Dr. William E. Barker began his practice & pharmaceutical business on the eastern corner of Seminary Street at Main Street. Construction of the Mississippi River levee necessitated a move, & in early January 1900, Barker’s Pharmacy was operating in the newly-completed Roth Building on Eden Street. Dr. Barker operated a private practice & served at times as town health officer & parish coroner. The pharmacy offered medicine, toiletries & perfumes, fine candies, & a soda shop on the street level. Several physicians, surgeons, & an insurance agency soon located their offices upstairs. Members of the Barker Family continue to operate the family business.