'Turnback Tuesday' features downtown Derby business

Turnback Tuesday looks at the local business of Elias B Nager, (Naggar), (Najjar).

Elias started out as a peddler in Derby in 1901. By 1910, he had a storefront for Dry Goods located at 10 Water St. He then moved his location in 1911 to 60 Water/Factory St. He remained at this location until his death in 1939.

We would like to remind those of you doing research about your family that it does take time and patience. One reason we say this is just look at the (3) different spellings of Elias’s last name: the name "Nager" was stated in the Derby City Directories.

The name "Naggar" was listed above the awning of the store. And the name "Najjar" is how it is spelled on his grave marker.

Also a friendly reminder that Derby Public Library has a great collection of resources to help with your research.

We have City Directories going back to 1872, a collection of all the Derby High School "Lookout" yearbooks plus local newspapers on microfilm dating back to 1855.

And our staff can help you find just what or who you are looking for.

Thanks as always goes to Derby Public Library staff for sharing interesting local history each week.

'Turnback Tuesday' highlights pharmacy in downtown Derby

Turnback Tuesday looks at local business Shannon’s Pharmacy owned and operated by druggist James F. Shannon from 1900-1904 at 53 Sixth St., Derby. 

A pharmacy would carry items such as elixirs, potions, and tonics. Advertised in the store window is Moxie, a carbonated, mass produced soft drink, as well as malted milk, and ice-cream soda. 

This location remained a pharmacy until 1932. After Shannon was J.F. McGrail and then A. Indocci. The building still exists today.

Thanks goes to Derby Public Library staff for sharing interesting local history each week!