A Moment in History: Sonny Lawson

O.L. “SONNY” LAWSON, co-owned the first Black Pharmacy in Denver – THE RADIO PHARMACY which was located in Five Points at East 26th and Welton streets. The Radio Pharmacy was a successful business for more than 50 years.

After completing his studies, Lawson returned to Denver and received his pharmacist’s license in 1919. At first, he worked for the Western Chemical Corporation and later was a clerk in the county assessor’s office. In 1923 he formed a partnership with Hulett A. Maxwell and opened the first black-owned pharmacy in Five Points at 2601 Welton Street.

Lawson often used his influence to help create jobs for African Americans. He made sure politicians followed up on their campaign promises.

On August 9, 1972, the park at 24th and Welton Streets became the first park in Denver to be dedicated to an African American – The Sonny Lawson Park. The park’s early history hosted Negro League games; it was the first ball field in Denver to do so. Oglesvie Lawson passed away on July 14, 1969.

Source: Black Then – Discover Our History

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