If you are looking for the definition of a successful family business, you don’t have to go any further than FZ Webb & Sons Pharmacy right here in Smithville.
Established in 1881 in the square, FZ Webb is the oldest pharmacy in the state and has been family owned the entire time. After it was started by FZ Webb, Norval F. Webb Sr. took over, then Norval F. Webb Jr., then Alan Webb.
“FZ Webb lived in McMinnville at the time and there was a drought,” said current owner Alan Webb. “He was involved with a lot of businesses back then, but he and two of his brothers owned the original Webb house which was where city hall is now. There was a fire in 1920 which burnt the whole block but it was rebuilt.”
Webb said the family bought the remaining buildings on the block in 1980 and had been there ever since but recently moved to their new location - 860 S. Congress Boulevard.
“Now, with my daughter Martha marrying pharmacist Justin Hooper, it makes for five generations,” Webb said. Martha Hooper is currently studying to be a nurse practitioner, which fits right in with the family plan.
The Webb family decided it was the right time to make the move from downtown.
“It became available, was a great opportunity and we wanted to take out business to the next level,” said Adam’s wife Lora Webb.  “We can be out on the highway where people coming into town could see us better. We’re more visible.”
The Webbs aren’t done building just yet, as the old-fashioned soda fountain is soon to open in late October. Along with getting a chocolate coke mixed up to order, lunch will also be available from the super-large kitchen, and desserts aplenty including shakes, sundaes and banana splits.
“I’m the original soda jerk,” Webb said. “I’m the only one who remembers doing that.”
From the old-fashioned Thomas Edison lightbulbs above the counter, to the new LEDs in the shopping area, FC Webb & Sons Pharmacy offers the best of both worlds.
“We offer fast, friendly service,” said Justin Hooper. “We deliver prescriptions within the city limits, have compliance packaging – where your medicine is prepacked in blister packaging to dispense a daily dose that helps manage medication – and even prescription synchronization.”
There’s also a gift shop opening around the time the soda fountain kicks off, and will be stocked for Christmas.
With a young, fifth generation in place, future plans are to have a walk-in clinic eventually.
“I’d like to thank all the merchants and customers that have come to us over the years on the square,” Webb said. “It’s meant a lot to my family for the last 136 years and we hope we’re here for another 136 years.”