Strachan & Co., Salisbury, was originally established in June 1891 as Lowenstein & Strachan of Lion Pharmacy. John Strachan, a qualified chemist and druggist, ran the Salisbury branch while Leopold Lowenstein was in charge of the Johannesburg branch.
Towards the end of 1891 Strachan had a thatched hut built on the Causeway. This was replaced in December 1895 by a ‘handsome’ chemist shop under the name of Strachan & Co was in Pioneer Street. Later a more modern establishment was built in Baker Avenue.
In 1902 Strachan sold out to Mr. James Dobie and Mr. George Drakes, who retained the name Strachan & Co. By 1910 the firm had their Headquarters at Baker Avenue, Causeway, and a branch on Manica Road, Salisbury. A brach was established at Kopje in 1910 but was closed in 1914.
In 1922 an extensive and up-to-date establishment was erected alongside the old Causeway building.
References
- Journal of the Rhodesian Study Circle No.261
- www.psz.co.zw