The American Journal of Pharmacy, March, 1907

In this thoughtful address, the author traces the evolution of pharmacy in America from its modest beginnings in the pioneer era to the organized college system of the nineteenth century. By outlining three distinct phases—early apothecary‑like storekeepers, colonial physicians who also dispensed medicines, and the rise of dedicated college programs—the essay sets the stage for a new, fourth era focused on rigorous educational standards.

The speaker then turns to the pressing question of who should be allowed into these schools, emphasizing the link between a solid general education and the moral responsibilities of a pharmacist. With a clear call for higher entrance requirements and uniform curricula, the piece argues that both students and institutions must rise to meet the public’s trust. Listeners will gain insight into early 20th‑century debates about professional competence, the role of state boards, and the broader push to align pharmacy with other respected professions.