An important part of many diners was the Soda Fountain. At the Soda Fountain, soft drinks were mixed up right on the spot from carbonated water and flavoring syrup. A variety of ice cream treats was also available at the bar. The picture above was taken in 1942, and the man making the banana splits was a veteran of World War I.
When I was growing up, Drug Stores were typically small mom and pop type shops. They would have a small pharmacy in the corner, where you could pick up medicines. They then had a soda fountain serving beverages and ice cream, and also had a diner for full meals.
I think we have really lost something having most all of the drug stores, and virtually all retail outlets for that matter, go to the big box stores.
