By: Rebecca Wagner and Tara Owen
Since it opened in 1952, Holder Drug has remained a town staple in Alva. Jim and Mary Holder, the founders of the company, passed down their business to their children, Todd, Sally, and Susie. In an interview with Sally, she mentioned that her father opened the pharmacy part of the store originally. After he saw a need in the community. Jim Holder already had experience in the line of business since he was already a pharmacist. Another drug store in town, Monford Drug, burned down, and to help a neighbor get back on their feet, the Holders and owners of Monford Drug partnered to create a business that would help the community of Alva thrive. They named the pharmacy Holder/ Southern Drug. In 1973, Jim Holder bought his partner’s share in the company, shortening the name to Holder Drug. Mary also contributed to the company. She had a knack for bookkeeping and ran the gift department of the store. The original store had a fountain in it and they used that to develop a lunch counter, and they also have a little area to sell gifts, and card.
Jim and Mary turned Holder Drug into the giftshop and pharmacy the town knows today, and they have passed it down to their children Sally and Todd, who are still a consistent part of the store. Sally and Todd can be seen on a daily basis, helping customers and treating everyone with kindness. The pair of siblings have found a rhythm of work that helps them keep the success of the store. Sally said, “We take care of each other.” Their moto stems from a saying their father used to have. Sally recalled, “Kill them with kindness, the customer is always right, and it will work out.” This moto has kept the siblings inspired while maintaining their business. When we asked about the community’s contribution to the company, Sally said that it is a “wonderful community” who is supportive and the “most giving.” Sally shared a shore about a family from out of town was having a meal at the store’s lunch counter and said that they felt like the town was one from a Hallmark movie. They said that everyone was so kind, and a random person would greet you as you were walking down the street.
Since the store opened in 1952, the town of Alva has seen and been through many changes. Holder Drug has moved through the changes with flexibility and willingness. She mentioned that they are always changing their vendors and products, and they always look for new ways to serve their customers. The pharmacy also changes with the world, they offer shots and even have a convenient drive-thru window. Holder Drugs is constantly going through changes, there are some things that will never change. One thing that never changes is that the Holders say that their employees are not just workers, but a part of the family. A few items on their lunch counter menu have stayed the same, as well. Their famous Jack and Jills have sweetened the lives of the people in Alva. If you want to get a taste of what it means to be a part of the Alva community, having a Jack and Jill in Holder Drug is a great place to start.