Our HiStory

Mission Statement

Our mission at The Bair is to supply our clients, community & employees with labor, service & food.  This is for the purpose of health, live-ability and caretaking of our friends and family.  This labor is done of love, not job and service, not charity.  Charity is our meaning of work, for a higher power.  In God we trust.

Courage – to do what is right in all situations, to the best of our ability

Confidence – to serve those we meet with respect and love

Integrity – to be accountable in our labors

The Past

The Bair Drug and Hardware Store, situated in Steilacoom, Washington, has a rich and storied history dating back to its establishment in 1895 by W.L. Bair. Originally, W.L. Bair's first store was located on Commercial Street in a town that was then a thriving seaport and the Pierce County seat. This initial store served as both a drug store and post office. However, when the Tacoma Trolley Company decided to reroute its trolley service to stop at the top of LaFayette Street hill in 1895, W.L. Bair made the decision to relocate his drug store to its present location.

Initially, the store only extended to the archway, primarily functioning as a pharmacy. W.L. Bair saw the potential in this new location, as it offered convenience to trolley passengers and returning travelers. In 1906, he expanded the store to include a soda fountain, where he began serving phosphates, coolers, sodas, and ice cream cones.

Moreover, the trolley not only brought customers but also electricity to Steilacoom. W.L. Bair connected the store to the power line, providing the town with its first electric lights. These lights would dim as the trolley approached, signaling passengers when it was time to depart.

The pharmacy remained an essential stop for the community, offering a range of "over the counter" medicines, health and grooming aids, penny candy for children, and other necessities for daily life.

The Present

In the present day, the Bair Drug and Hardware Building, owned and operated by Sara Reid, has evolved into The Bair, preserving the historical charm of the original building while offering a unique dining experience. The building's relics from its past, including the original marble soda fountain, create a turn-of-the-century atmosphere. The bistro offers a menu of home-made comfort food for breakfast and lunch, as well as a variety of soda fountain treats, espressos, and desserts. Visitors can also explore the living museum, and it's important to note that the museum areas are preserved to maintain their historical integrity.

The Bair stands as a testament to the rich history of Steilacoom and continues to be a cherished part of the community, thanks to the dedication of its owners and the support of its patrons. It is a place where you can savor a taste of the past while enjoying a modern dining experience.

A huge thank you to to our friends, family, & community for all of the love & support to make this dream a reality! The loving support & help of our fans has kept us the staple of the Steilacoom Community. And to all of our patrons, thank you, we look forward to serving you for years to come.

 With heartfelt thanks,

The Bair Family