Advertising sign for Otis tonic tablets, rear of 536 Rathdowne Street, North Carlton
Advertising sign for Otis tonic tablets, rear of 536 Rathdowne Street, North Carlton - CCHG

Advertising sign, rear of 536 Rathdowne Street, North Carlton

Otis tonic tablets, manufactured by E.C. De Witt & Company, were advertised as a "guaranteed remedy for debility, brain fog, anaemia, depression, morbidness, maternity weakness, neurasthenia, insomnia, premature decay and all ailments arising from blood poverty or depleted nervous energy." De Witt was so confident of the product that it offered a full refund if the tablets "fail to do all that is claimed of them". Advertisements for Otis tonic tablets appeared in newspapers from 1922 to 1925 - a relatively short life - while other De Witt's products continued well into the 20th century and beyond. Were Otis tonic tablets a victim of their own money back guarantee? 536 Rathdowne Street has a long history of continuous service as a chemist shop from 1913 to 1987. The first chemist, O. Smith, opened for business in 1913, followed by C. Phillips from 1921 to 1925. The wording "C. Phillips" is just visible under Ray Chandler's name. Chandler served the local community until 1947, continued by I.L. Atkins from 1948 to 1967, and S. Benporath from 1968 to 1978. David Nolte was the final chemist shop occupant from 1979 to 1987, when he moved to new premises at 701 Rathdowne Street.

by cchg on Sept. 27, 2018


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