The Macartney Drug store has been a staple in the Thorold community for over 140 years. Located in the downtown core, it was -and still is - a 'go to' destination for all health care needs. John Macartney, one of Thorold's first pharmacists, built his pharmacy along the east side of the first and second Welland Canal, which has since been filled in. He operated his business from the building for 60 years.

The building has changed ownership only once in its history, and operates now as Henderson's Pharmacy. The handover occurred in 1939. The building always sold pharmaceutical items from the very beginning, and it continues to do so today. The land where the drug store is located was at one time owned by George Keefer, a local entrepreneur and founder of the Welland Canal, whose name is very important to the history of Thorold.

At the time, Front Street was a very busy area. The Welland Canal passed right through the centre of Thorold, and when it was in operation, people would come to purchase steamship tickets at Macartney's, as well as other items they may have needed.

John Henderson purchased the building from Macartney in 1939. Henderson was an large part of Thorold history himself. He was active in the town, was an Alderman, and was a member of the Thorold council for 25 years.

The Macartney Drugstore, or Henderson's Pharmacy, is a very important part of Thorold's community heritage, and has always served the residents well.

The building itself has an Italianite architectural style. This seems appropriate, as much of Thorold's community is of Italian heritage. There are 3 main sections to the building that stand out most, the storefront, the middle facade and the top of the building. The middle facade is the most striking feature of the building, with its large hooded windows featuring stained glass window panes surrounded by cut limestone.

Henderson's Pharmasave

15 Front Street South

Thorold, Ontario

L2N 3PV

(905) 227-2511