Orange Pharmacy building, 2115 Grand Central Avenue

The Galetzi Building was constructed in 1932 at 2115 Grand Central Avenue (now Kennedy Blvd.) by Harry Galetzi. Galetzi operated a grocery and fruit stand on East Broadway (now 7th Ave.) in Ybor City until moving here in 1932. Atlantic and Pacific Tea Company first occupied the building‘s east side, while Harry’s Market operated a fruit stand in the western half. It was one of 12 combination stores opened by the A&P Company, combining their grocery sales with another local merchant selling fruit and produce. Inside was a sliding door between the two businesses, making the appearance of one large room.

In 1941, Orange Pharmacy moved in, having its grand opening in August of that year. The store featured a luncheonette, prescription drugs, cosmetics, and a hard-fought-for liquor license, allowing them to sell booze. In the late 1940s, it was also known as Penberthy’s Orange Pharmacy. The store went out of business in July 1967. In August 1970, Jack Mack Office Furniture D.B.A. Wheeler Dealer opened for business here. By the 1980s, OFC Office Furniture Center opened and remains in business today.

Orange Pharmacy building, 2115 Grand Central Avenue. 1941. Robertson and Fresh. Courtesy of the USF Digital Collection

Office Furniture Center- 2117 Kennedy Blvd, Tampa FL 2022. © Chip Weiner