Photos by Lisa Quested

City Sundries: A Small Town Tradition

By Lisa Quested

City Sundries, Marquette, is one of only 38 remaining operating soda fountains in drug stores across the state. More than 100 years ago, most towns in Kansas could boast to having at least one. They came in all shapes and amenities with back bars, mirrors, brass rails, and marble counters, but all offered a place for fun and memories. Out of those still operating, a few boast those original trademark marble counter tops. And, as “progress” seems to do in some cases, these wonderful, smooth, cool rock creations were replaced with plastic, starting in the 1950s.

Soda fountains statewide received the attention they deserve in the “8 Wonders of Kansas Customs" competition conducted by the Kansas Sampler last fall. City Sundries, with its unique charms and historic details, made a perfect candidate. The building itself was built in 1887 and was originally a pharmacy.

"We are so very excited" declared Kris Hudson, the new proprietor of the Marquette icon. She is no stranger to the drug store, her mother, Sandra Myers, was the owner in the 1980's for about ten years. Not much had changed, she noted "Except our sandwiches are made fresh to order now."

She also noticed that the games children enjoy differ substantially. "We used to have a juke box and Pac Man game machines," she explained. "Now all kids want is a Wii and their lap tops complete with Itunes."

Definite sign of the times
But there are some things time does not change at City Sundries. They still utilize the original walnut cabinets and marble ice cream counter. The beautiful mosaic floors tile still complete the ambiance of turn of the century decor.

Kris is also no stranger to Marquette. Born and raised in the area where she and her husband, a local farmer, now raise three elementary school age daughters. Kris spent many a weekend afternoon herself as a teen working at the drug store, when her mother owned it. She looks forward to the day when her girls too can complete the circle and learn how to operate the ice cream and soda counter.
Today, she’s assisted by local teens, and she can proudly boast she is the employer of 12 local citizens. Kris has always been a loyal community supporter. She could be found present at all school and church events and is a familiar face at local businesses.

A new beginning

When the soda fountain closed last year, she knew it was an opportunity she could not resist. She could not bear the idea of this landmark business closing its doors forever. The small town of Marquette needed the business and much as the store needed them.

Kris soon filled the quaint store with gifts, balloons, greeting cards and, of course, sundry items. An upstairs room is available for small gatherings, where she hopes to host a party or meeting or two. She also makes T shirts, snacks and lunches, incredible ice cream creations, true to tradition.

But, she’s also keeping up with technology. She offers free wireless internet access and the best choices of gourmet coffees and teas. Chai is a local favorite. Debit card purchases are now very welcome too. When asked about her favorite part of the day, Kris notes the hours she enjoys spending  with the wide assortment of folks that enter her freshly painted door. And of the recession that seems to plague all present day businesses: "I have had a surprisingly great first year." Kris says.
And, with the history and the sodas, she bound to have many more.