Goolrick’s to reopen under new ownership
A Fredericksburg real estate development firm has purchased the historic downtown building that is home to Goolrick’s and plans to reopen the longtime business following a renovation.
Jarrell Properties (JPI) purchased the 4,780-square-foot building at 901 Caroline Street on Monday, according to a news release from the company. The releases stated that Jarrell will preserve the soda fountain with “that nostalgic feeling of yesteryear” and reopen it. There are no plans to re-open the pharmacy.
Goolrick’s has been described as being “America’s Longest Continuously Operated Soda Fountain,” with a history that dates back to 1867.
The Jarrell family in the news release detailed their long and fond relationship with Goolrick’s. Company President James “Jay” Jarrell III, who was born and raised in Fredericksburg, recalled working a construction job in high school one summer and having two egg salad and bacon sandwiches on white toast for lunch from Goolrick’s almost every day. His children — son, James Jarrell IV, and daughter, Jewels Jarrell Stover — also grew up in Fredericksburg, now run the family business and are equally fond of Goolrick’s.
The building is in dire need of repair and renovation following years of heavy use, flooding and evidence of old fire damage, according to the news release. JPI plans to renovate the entire 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. The dining space will be expanded, and the lunch counter and bar stools will be restored. The Jarrells plan to bring back original sandwich recipes and other classic Goolrick’s favorites for future generations to enjoy.
The Jarrells seek a food service professional to manage and operate the soda fountain. Interested parties should contact Jewels Jarrell at 540-899-3825.
Visit Goolricksfxbg.com to track the building’s progress as it makes its way through the renovations.