The Kennedy Pharmacy: A Preserved Piece of Savannah’s Past

In the heart of Savannah’s historic district, where every street corner and building facade tells a story, the Historic Kennedy Pharmacy stands as a testament to the city’s unwavering commitment to preservation. Located at 323 East Broughton Street, this beautiful Victorian-era building is not just a relic of the past; it is a living part of the city’s present, beautifully reimagined to serve the community while honoring its unique heritage. While its days of dispensing medicine are long gone, the pharmacy remains a vital stop for anyone exploring the history and charm of Savannah.

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A Storied History of Commerce and Community

The story of the Kennedy Pharmacy begins in the late 19th century. Built in 1890 for Robert Kennedy, a local harbormaster, the building was originally an investment property. Its first tenant was a working pharmacy, a bustling hub where locals would come for remedies and advice. It served as a neighborhood drugstore through the early 20th century before being used for various other businesses, including a tax office and a Chinese laundry, and eventually falling into disrepair.

The building’s preservation is a story of its own. It was one of the last remaining wooden storefronts on Broughton Street and was acquired by the Historic Savannah Foundation (HSF), the very organization that famously saved the adjacent Davenport House Museum. Through a collaborative effort with students from the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), the pharmacy was meticulously restored in a multi-year project, breathing new life into a forgotten piece of history.

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A Bridge Between Past and Present

Today, the Kennedy Pharmacy serves as a modern and versatile community space, perfectly blending its historical roots with a new purpose. The main floor now functions as the official gift shop and entrance for the Davenport House Museum, allowing visitors to step into a beautifully preserved space before or after their tour. The shop’s design pays homage to the building’s original function, featuring cabinets and bookcases inspired by 19th-century apothecaries, creating a sense of authentic Victorian-era charm.

Beyond its role as a retail space, the building is a vibrant community hub. It hosts a variety of public programs, including an “Artisan Spotlight Series” that features local artists and a wide range of creative workshops. The space is also available for private events, from weddings to receptions, giving people the unique opportunity to celebrate in a building that is a cornerstone of Savannah’s preservation movement. Its new life as a gathering place and a cultural center is a powerful testament to the city’s philosophy that historic buildings should be saved and reused, not just preserved behind a velvet rope.

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A Symbol of Savannah’s Preservation Spirit

The Kennedy Pharmacy is more than just a historical building; it is a symbol of Savannah’s preservation spirit. Its revival is a shining example of how a community can come together to save its heritage and give it a purpose that serves future generations. The building’s elegance and its new role are a direct result of the passionate work of the Historic Savannah Foundation, the organization that ignited a preservation movement that has protected thousands of buildings throughout the city.

For anyone interested in the history of medicine, architecture, or the art of preservation, a stop at the Kennedy Pharmacy in Savannah is a must. It offers a tangible connection to the city’s commercial past and a vibrant glimpse into its creative present. It reminds us that history is not static; it is a dynamic force that can be revitalized and integrated into the fabric of daily life, making the story of Savannah’s historic district richer and more compelling than ever.