Soon after the Civil War, the Marx family began selling essential goods in the city of St. Louis. Incredibly, 140 years later, Marx Hardware & Paint Co. is still in business. The shop in Old North is now run by brothers Andy and Steve Marx, who encourage calling ahead to ask about selection — they're not Home Depot and don't pretend to be. That's part of the charm — that, and the giant harmonica hanging from the ceiling, along with the wood-burning stove that warms the shop come winter. Marx offers a bit of everything, from tools and paint to rat traps, shovels, garden hoses and glue. The brothers even stock laundry detergent and toilet paper for neighbors who don't want to trek to the grocery store. 2501 North 14th Street, St. Louis, 63106. 314-231-8435.