Uncarved Block takes shape on Main Street

May 5, 2:44 PMSonoma County ExaminerLaura McHale Holland

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When my husband, Jim, first brought me along on one of his many visits to the Uncarved Block on Santa Rosa Ave. in Santa Rosa, it seemed to me like an out-of-place puzzle piece, one you try to force in even after you realize it's not the right fit. There was no foot traffic, and the storefront didn't even face the street.

Now, located at 110 N. Main St. in downtown Sebastopol, the store is sweetly nestled between the Sonoma County Repertory Theater and Incredible Records (which houses The Sonoma County Rock 'n' Roll Museum), it's as though this one-of-a-kind find has always been there.

On sunny afternoons, you're likely to see young musicians plucking banjos on a bench just outside of People's Music nearby. This is fitting, because in addition to featuring an extensive collection of minerals, rock crystals and jewelry, and now some nifty duds by Treehouse 28 (another local enterprise), the shop carries all manner of Grateful Dead paraphernalia -- including a $25,400 refrigerator once owned by Jerry Garcia.

The Dead memorabilia is what draws Jim in. He lived across the street from the band for a spell as a teenager, and he's been a fan ever since (oh, the stories he tells about that).

But it may be a ruffled Treehouse 28 organic cotton shirt that pulls me back. Paul Forster, who mans the store most days, says you can special-order Treehouse clothes via the company's Web site (www.treehouse28.com) and have the items sent to the Uncarved Block, where you can try your new threads on before committing to them.

I took a few pix when I stopped in to get Jim a gift certificate the other day. They're in the slideshow accompanying this post. The store is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. (closing time is negotiable). Questions? Call 707-829-7625.

And, for my take on the Grateful Dead tribute band Dark Star Orchestra's recent concert, click here.