FARMERSVILLE, Texas — Decades-old buildings dot the square in downtown Farmersville, Texas. Each one has its own unique story, like the old Dyer Drug Store.

“Certainly a lot smaller location than what wer’re currently in now. But this is where it all started: 1931,” said Dyer Drug Store owner John Hickman.

Hickman’s grandfather started the business. In fact, they competed with three other drug stores located on the same square. That was during World War II when the town was jumping.

“They’d come here to socialize with their friends, spread stories of what was going on during the war, if they’ve heard from any of their loved ones,” said John Hickman.

That was also the time downtown welcomed home a hero. Hickman's mother, who still works in the store, was there in 1945 when Audie Murphy came home the most decorated soldier of World War II. People packed the square for a huge celebration.

“We sat on the car and watched it. It was fantastic! It was a little town. There was no room to move in this town,” said Frances Hickman.

More than 75 years later, not much has changed. The buildings are still intact and so is Dyer Drugs. They’ve just moved to the other side of the square since then. 

When COVID-19 hit, they fought back. So far, they’ve given more than two thousand shots. That’s half the town.

“John calls back the next day to make sure they’re not having any problems,” said Frances Hickman.

That’s part of the feeling you get when you walk inside. This is one big family. Dyer Drug has been a town staple for 90 years. Even a pandemic couldn’t slow them down. 

"As long as I can continue to feed my family and support the other families that are also working here, that’s what I want to do for this community,” said John Hickman.