Lattimer’s Drug Store

THE BREAKFAST CLUB 

at Lattimer’s Drug Store

Each weekday morning, as the first light of dawn began to wash over Belleville, a dedicated community of downtown business people would make their way to 228 Front Street. More than just a drugstore, this place was a sanctuary of camaraderie, laughter, and the timeless art of conversation. It was Lattimer’s Drug Store, where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingled with the rich history of a town and its people.

Founded in 1911 by William (Bill) Lattimer, a Pharmacist who graduated from the University of Toronto, the drugstore quickly became a cornerstone of the community. After Bill’s untimely passing in 1926 at 43, his son Bruce Lattimer took the reins, continuing the family legacy with the same conscientiousness and understanding his father had instilled.

Bruce Lattimer was more than a pharmacist; he was a confidant, a friend, and an integral part of Belleville’s social fabric. Each morning, an assortment of the town’s business people, politicians, and local personalities would stroll into Lattimer’s, greeting Bruce with a familiar nod before taking their seats at the lunch counter. There, they would chat with their favourite server, order their coffee and begin the daily ritual of discussing local politics, business deals, and the latest town gossip. Former mayor Jane Forrester once remarked that the community finalized more business transactions over those cups of coffee than anywhere else in the city. This gathering of minds and hearts became known as the “Breakfast Club.”

The drugstore was much more than a place to pick up prescriptions. The front section served its traditional role, but just beyond it lay a bustling lunch counter and, further still, the Town Room—a spacious area that felt more like a community living room than part of a business. The Town Room was a hub of activity, where every face was familiar, and everyone had a story to share. In one corner of the cozy room stood a well-loved piano. Though Bruce was not one to play, regular customers Charlie Cawker and other musicians often filled the room with melodies, adding to the warm and inviting atmosphere. Students from Nicholson and BCI lined up at the long, curving lunch bar for shakes, sodas and snacks. 

As night fell, Lattimer’s took on a different role, hosting meetings for various community organizations. Bruce was deeply involved in many of these groups, contributing his time and resources to bettering Belleville. His commitment to our city was evident in his roles, ranging from serving on the Hospital Board to presiding over the Belleville Chamber of Commerce.  His leadership extended to the Kiwanis Club, where he served as Lieutenant Governor, and he also led the polls as an Alderman in 1945, as well as many other elected positions.

Tragedy struck in 1965 when a fire broke out in Ted Schwab’s stationary supply business, just a few doors down from Lattimer’s. The flames spread quickly, destroying the iconic building at 228 Front, known as the West Robertson Block, which is now home to a municipal parking lot.When the store decided not to reopen Bruce sent a heartfelt public open letter to the Intelligencer, expressing his appreciation to his many customers  for 55 years of friendship and loyalty.

Lattimer’s was the city’s hotspot, a second home to many, and a symbol of Belleville’s enduring spirit. It was where friendships were forged, deals were struck, and every morning began with the comforting routine of coffee and conversation. His legacy lives on in the hearts and memories of Belleville’s residents. They fondly recalled the ten-cent coffees, the sweet sodas, and the tunes from Charlie, the piano man. Even today, as people reminisce around the downtown coffee shops and patios, the name Lattimer’s Drugs Store evokes a warm smile and a wealth of cherished memories.