The genesis of Five 11 Main began a hundred years ago in the history of Ashton, Idaho. In the early 1900’s, a new bank was built to serve a thriving farming and logging community. The railroad also passed through Ashton on it’s way to Yellowstone Park, enlarging Ashton’s “dot on the map”. The bank later relocated and the building became the local pharmacy and soda fountain known for decades as the “City Drug”. Over the years, many people have traveled through Ashton and stopped for the famous City Drug Huckleberry shake on their way to and from the Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, Henry’s Fork of the Snake River, Mesa Falls, and other winter and summer destinations. Both locals and visitors made a stop at City Drug a part of their travel routine.
In the fall of 2008, after 90 years of service, the owners of City Drug turned off the fountain pumps and offered the building for sale due to the need to adapt to pharmacy business changes. The City Drug building was purchased by the Hamiltons, the original Five 11 Main owners, and was updated and restored to the amazing establishment that it is today. On May 11, 2009 at 5:11 pm, the fountain located at 511 Main St. was re-opened and began flowing again. The remodeled building exposes old original brick walls and the original bank safe. It also features displays of Ashton’s historical and current events as well as other area highlights.
In January of 2023, George and Jessica Barnett purchased Five 11 Main. The Barnetts updated the menu and extended business hours to better serve the community.