Business Enterprises & Industries
Roxbury has a rich history of entrepreneurship, with many businesses calling it home. Notable examples include the Boston Rubber Shoe Company, one of the largest shoe manufacturers in the early 20th century, the historic Eustis Street Fire House, and organizations like the YMCA and U.S. Post Office.
Notable Businesses Featured in the chapter...
BLAIR MARKET, SEPTEMBER 29, 1966
THE JACKSON TYPEWRITER COMPANY, 1895 - 1902
THE JACKSON TYPEWRITER COMPANY, 1895 - 1902
Opening of the new Blair Market in Washington Park – Roxbury. Photo shows (L to R) Richard Gittens, store manager; customer, Ora Purcell; customer, Cora Anderson; William Battles, grocery supervisor and buyer for Blair’s; customer, Anna Swart, and Harold Burg, President and treasurer of Blair’s welcome customers.
THE JACKSON TYPEWRITER COMPANY, 1895 - 1902
THE JACKSON TYPEWRITER COMPANY, 1895 - 1902
THE JACKSON TYPEWRITER COMPANY, 1895 - 1902
The Jackson, a remarkable machine with mysterious origins, traces back to the Conde. Developed in Bridgeport, CT, and Roxbury, MA, it was briefly produced before becoming obsolete in New Haven, CT. It had a final chance in Canada but failed. Like Lazarus, The Jackson rose again after its setbacks.
THE DRAKE’S CAKES AND COOKIES FACTORY
THE JACKSON TYPEWRITER COMPANY, 1895 - 1902
THE DRAKE’S CAKES AND COOKIES FACTORY
Drake's Cakes and Cookies factory, founded by the Drake Brothers in 1905 on Savin Street, played a key role in the company's early growth. Known for its delicious baked goods and innovative production, it quickly became a beloved landmark in the Roxbury neighborhood.
"Roxbury: A hub of innovation and iconic businesses"
Notable buildings in this chapter...
THE UNITED DRUG BUILDING, FEBRUARY 5, 1937
The United Drug building at 716-740 Columbus Avenue is a prime example of effective management. With 100,000 square feet of space and a spur track connection, it was originally built for cigar manufacturing by Wait & Bond. After years of vacancy, it is now fully occupied, including by Lakeside Biscuit Co.
BAY STATE PHARMACY, 1915
Pharmacist, Dr. William A. Smith was manager and co-proprietor of Bay State Pharmacy. Located at 840 Tremont Street, it was the only black-owned drugstore in Boston in 1915.
THE CHICKERING & SONS BUILDING
The Chickering & Sons Building at 791 Tremont Street was home to a renowned piano manufacturer founded in 1823. Known for its size and productivity, it also housed the Spencer Repeating Rifle Company during the Civil War. After ceasing piano production, the building was repurposed for uses like artist lofts.