Throughout three years of research, we have come across amazing stories about John Fountain and his wife, Josephine. However, there is very little documented history about the couple. During remodeling, we found several interesting hints about how the Fountains and their employees lived. We also found evidence of an optometrist who had business in the building in the 1920's. We would like to find more documented evidence of the Fountains' era and share it with those interested in such history. If you know anyone who would like to share a story, has a picture or newspaper article, or other information to share, please contact us. It would be wonderful if we could at least dedicate a web page to the amazing life of the Fountains and the history of their building. Regarding this, please email napolis@email.com or call 806-884-4229.

  What we know now is that the building (eventually the John Fountain Taylor Shop) was built in the early 1900's as Amarillo's first bus station. The area between what is now Napoli's and Swifty Communigraphics was a park area with an awning that provided shade for the long summer waits. In 1947, John and Jo Fountain opened their tailor shop. For over 50 years, Mr. Fountain dressed Amarillo's elite in the finest clothes available. There are stories of barber chairs, whiskey, and banter among the men who often just visited even if not requiring Mr. Fountain's services. We've heard from those fortunate enough to afford tailored suits in the 50's, and we've heard from those who remember wishing they could just walk in and visit with the guys. There was a period where a restaurant named Romano's was in the space just south of Napoli's. They used the courtyard as "Amarillo's Only Beer Garden". Though faded, this painting can still be seen near the ivy on the northwest corner of the courtyard. A keen eye may also spot armadillos drinking beer and John Rivet's rendition of several old downtown Amarillo businesses.

  Any contributions to keeping this history alive would be very appreciated. Who knows? If you let us copy a picture, maybe we'll buy you dinner!

  Thanks,

  Napoli's, fans of Amarillo's Downtown history