Young Brothers Pharmacy
2 W. Main Street
Cartersville, GA 30120

It’s not so much what’s inside as what’s outside that draws visitors to Young Brothers Pharmacy. Sure, the locals know it as “an independent, full-service pharmacy with local delivery” and a “Durable Medical Equipment Supplier,” but unless you have a prescription to fill, that’s probably not the reason you will want to stop by the downtown Cartersville landmark. And it’s not the reason the building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, either.

In 1894, a syrup salesman decided the pharmacy’s vast exterior wall would be a prime location to advertise his product. He grabbed a paintbrush and -- voila! -- the world’s first Coca-Cola painted wall sign was created.
 
The iconic sign received the 1990 Georgia Trust Award for Preservation when 25 layers of paint were removed during the restoration to reveal the original sign. It was repainted in 1994.

After you’ve snapped your photos, step inside and browse through the store’s Coca-Cola memorabilia and collectibles. Don’t forget to buy a Coke for the road before you leave.

The pharmacy is open Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and Sunday 1:30 to 3:00 p.m.

Located at 2 W Main Street, Young Brothers Pharmacy would be hard to miss. From I-75, take Exit 288 to Main Street/GA 113 and go about 2.5 miles. The sign is on the east side of the building facing the railroad tracks. Call the pharmacy at 770-382-4010 with questions.

Photo by Melanie F. Gibbs