Who Is A.j. Barker?

[speerbob]

Hi, At the Baltimore pen show I picked up this very near mint BCHR pen. The imprint is A.J. Barker Co. Taunton, Mass. Does anyone know anything about this pen or who A.J. Barker is? I'm guessing maybe a Pharmacy and the pen was made by another company, maybe Boston fountain pen company. Any info would be appreciates. Thanks, BOB

 

[whichwatch]

Bob

 

 

I turned this up via Google, which might give you a lead or even an answer:

 

 

For years, the AJ Barker Pharmacy was the place to go in Taunton, Mass. for everyday drugstore needs and advice. It’s where my great-grandfather worked as a pharmacist, where he created the original formula for Alkalol Nasal Wash in 1896, and where he delighted in dispensing over-the-counter advice to customers on a variety of healthcare questions and concerns. Ask James Whitters anything – How can I soothe this sore throat? What should I use to help my back pain? How are the Red Sox going to do this year? – and he’d gladly provide an answer!

Today we’re relaunching AlkalolCompany.com with some exciting social media features we hope will capture the personal interactions and unique small-town pharmacy feel that made the AJ Barker Pharmacy, and full-service drug stores like it all over America, so special.

[speerbob]

Hi, Great info, Thanks, I didn't find that in my Google search but figured it was a store brand. The pen is not a cheap store pen either, it's very well made with a very sturdy clip and excellent nib. Thanks, BOB

[boybacon]

What does it say on the pocket clip between the two "rivets"? Also, can you get a close up of the nib? Whatever is written there might provide clues to the mfg.

[Vintagepens]

Nothing about the pen recalls Boston.

John Holland would be a more likely candidate.

[ckalus]

I have the exact* same pen.

 

*ok, mine is missing the feed and nib. Otherwise, it’s in excellent condition.