We are pleased to feature author Stephen Hall, historian, writer, archivist, and long-time contributor to the preservation of pharmacy history. Hall’s new book, A Spoonful of Sugar: The Story Of The Upjohn Pharmacy In Disneyland, offers a deeply researched and engaging exploration of the Upjohn Pharmacy at Disneyland.
In addition to his achievements as an author, Hall has made significant contributions to the field through his work at the Coit Museum of Pharmacy & Health Sciences. In recognition of his dedication and impact, AIHP proudly awarded him a Certificate of Commendation in 2022 for his outstanding efforts in preserving and interpreting history at the museum.
What inspired you to explore the story of Upjohn’s pharmacy in Disneyland, and how does your background connect to this project?
This book grew out of my work at the Coit Museum of Pharmacy & Health Sciences. I spent a decade as the museum’s curator, and one of my key responsibilities in that role was caring for the Upjohn Pharmacy collection. In order to help visitors understand its significance, it was important that I myself knew the stories and the history behind it. So I began researching the Upjohn Pharmacy, its artifact collection, and the histories of the Upjohn and Disney companies. I soon realized that almost nothing substantive had ever been written about the Upjohn Pharmacy, and this book became a passion project intended to share its wonderful story.
What was the most challenging part of writing this book?
Since very little had ever been written about the Upjohn Pharmacy, my initial research proved difficult. Luckily, I connected early on with an Upjohn historian and former employee, who shared a wealth of information about the company and its history. His extensive knowledge proved invaluable, and he helped connect me with several other resources that became instrumental in my writing.
How long did it take you to research and write A Spoonful of Sugar?
I started writing about the Upjohn Pharmacy around 2017. At the time, it was a very casual endeavor, just writing for fun. (Originally, I wasn’t even thinking of it as a book.) However, the further I got into my research, the more I realized there was a much broader narrative to tell. Over time, the project grew in scope, and around 2020, I decided it would be a full-fledged book.
What was your research process like, and where did you find your most valuable sources? What advice do you have for others who want to start a historical research project?
My research process was a bit unusual, since 1) When I began, I was already knee-deep in working with the Upjohn Pharmacy collection, and 2) I was trying to weave together very disparate topics — pharmacy history, advertising history, Disney history, local histories from Michigan, Missouri, and California, etc.
My most valuable sources came from personal connections I made along the way; Upjohn and Disney historians, archivists in West Michigan, descendants of key figures involved with the Upjohn Company, etc.
For those interested in starting a historical research project, my advice is to get out there and meet people. Talk to experts, researchers, descendants, whoever you can. Get to know them. Establishing human connection and trust can open all kinds of doors.
Are there other pharmacy-related historical projects you’d like to pursue?
While pharmacy history is still a passion of mine, I’m no longer immersed in it since I no longer work at the Coit Museum. At some point down the road, I may dig into a new topic, but for now, I will be taking a break.
Did you make any unexpected discoveries that changed the book’s direction?
Absolutely, many times! Like I said, I wasn’t even thinking of this as a book originally — the unexpected discoveries were the very reason it became a book! The further I dug into my research, the more rabbit holes I uncovered. Unexpected historical connections, humorous discoveries, and a much broader narrative than I ever expected.
What’s next for you—do you plan to explore other intersections of healthcare and popular culture?
We’ll see. Medical history and pop culture history are both passions of mine, so perhaps I will embark on a different research project in the future.
Where can readers learn more about your work and connect with you?
The book is available from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other retailers. Signed copies are also available through the publisher’s website. My email address is smhall817@gmail.com. I would love to connect with readers!
