8 Iconic Stores That Have Disappeared

This week, Radioshack announced the closing of some 1,100 stores, prompting speculation as to whether it will go the way of Blockbuster. That reminds a nostalgic Caitlin Dewey at the Washington Post of the key stores of yesteryear that just aren't there anymore:

1. After more than 100 years, Filene's Basement shut down in 2012; it was the first bargain clothing shop in the US.
2. Thanks to music's digital transition, Tower Records closed in 2006 after nearly 50 years in business. Sam Goody was bought out the same year.
3. When Circuit City shut in 2009, the company pointed to the recession—but it was dealing with the same changing demands Radioshack currently faces, Dewey notes.

4. KB Toys faded from the scene in 2008, leaving many kids less excited about the mall.
5. Facing online competition, Borders went under in 2011. "Browsing Amazon on your laptop just doesn’t have quite the same, easily fetishized appeal," Dewey writes.
6. Howard Johnson's used to serve customers everywhere. Want a bite now? You'll have to head to Lake Placid, NY, or Bangor, Maine.

Click for the full list. (More retail stores stories.)