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Photography by Kate Munsch
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Photography by Kate Munsch
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Photography by Kate Munsch
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Photography by Kate Munsch
It’s hard to know where to look when you first enter the Crystal Wizard Shop (7621 S. Broadway, 314-638-7721), an occult-supply store.
Look to the right, and you’ll find a vintage phrenology head. Look to the left, and you’ll spot a not-for-sale Ouija board that’s more than 100 years old. “You’re either totally fascinated or totally scared by Ouija boards,” says shop owner Chris Gibbs, “or both.” Just past that, the taxidermied bats in little cases are available for the eclectic collector. Look up, and check out Harold the flying skeleton (in a snappy bow tie). Look around, and you’re sure to spot Merlin, the always-chill gray shop cat. Look out: The mischievous former stray likes to take things from unattended purses.
The Crystal Wizard has been playing tricks and selling treats for 26 years; it’s the oldest occult shop in Missouri. The retailer, which sells a lot of candles, ritual oils, herbs, and tarot cards, was opened by Gibbs’ mother, Barbara Allen, in 1988.
You’re strongly advised to conclude with the rubbing of the head. Lort—“troll” spelled backward, more or less—is the concrete gargoyle who guards the shop. Pat his noggin for good luck. Depending on what you buy, you might need it.
