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There are several universal remote controls on the market today that can be retrofitted to most traditional pull chain fans. The way most of them work is they have a receiver that is designed to (hopefully) fit inside the ceiling fan canopy at the ceiling. The wires from the ceiling get wired into the remote receiver, which in turn gets wired into the fan. So you will need to do a little work to get it installed.
The best universal remote control is model RC220 made by Minka Aire and is available at several reputable dealers online. This control seems to be the most reliable and has a small enough receiver to fit most fans.
Most universal remote controls will give you 3 speeds and a full range light dimmer. There are others with thermostatic functions and such, but they may not be as reliable. However, because your ceiling fan was not designed to use a remote control, none of the universal remotes will be capable of reversing your fan. You will still need to flick the reverse switch manually to perform this operation.
For more information call Hansen Wholeale at: 1-800-201-1193