Generations of kids—particularly in the New York City area—got their first musical instrument after their parents visited a Sam Ash store, the retail chain founded 100 years ago by Sam and Rose Ash, who opened their first shop in the Brownsville section of Brooklyn in 1924.

The chain, which sold guitars, drums and every other musical instrument you can think of to professional musicians as well as beginners, grew to 42 outlets in 16 states over the past century.

Sam Ash has announced that it will be closing all of its stores by the end of July. Derek Ash, great-grandson of the founders—and chief marketing officer of the retailer—said the company could not compete with online, direct-to-customer sales.

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