FREDERICKSBURG, Va. (May 11, 2022) – A true Fredericksburg landmark that locals and
visitors adore — the historic Goolrick’s Pharmacy and its famous soda fountain. Now, customers
will be happy to know the new owner is preserving Goolrick’s famous Soda Fountain and with it
that nostalgic feeling of yesteryear. It is described as being America’s Longest Continuously
Operated Soda Fountain.
On Monday, May 9, 2022, Jarrell Properties Inc. (JPI) finalized the purchase of the Goolrick’s
Pharmacy building at 901 Caroline St. in downtown Fredericksburg. JPI purchased the building
to restore its historic character and iconic soda fountain.
The family-owned and operated business, JPI, shares many of the heartwarming memories they
hear from others who know and love Goolrick’s. JPI President James “Jay” Jarrell, III was born
and raised in Fredericksburg. He warmly recalls, “I often stopped by for their vanilla shakes –
awesome. During high school, I worked on a construction job downtown, and I had two egg
salad and bacon sandwiches on white toast for lunch almost every day that summer.”
His son, James Jarrell IV, and daughter, Jewels Jarrell Stover, also grew up in Fredericksburg and
now run the family business.
Jewels Jarrell Stover is fond of the milkshakes just like her father. She has great memories from
her times at Goolrick’s and is excited about the opportunity to preserve this important landmark
for future generations. She sees it as an amazing project, “especially after growing up and
currently living and working in Downtown Fredericksburg.”
The building is in dire need of repair and renovation following years of heavy use, flooding and
evidence of old fire damage. JPI’s experienced team plans on the renovation and rehabilitation of
the building as soon as possible with the all-important goal of reopening Goolrick’s so it will
continue to be a meaningful part of the Fredericksburg Downtown well into the future.
