Most people head to Hollywood Rubber Stamp to get a custom-made stamp quickly, at prices starting at just $7. Prop masters for films including National Lampoon’s European Vacation have sought its services whenever they needed to literally make a mark on set. Unknown to many visitors, however, is the history of the desolate building. During WWII, the premises was used to pack parachutes — and the staff was rumored to have included Marilyn Monroe, before she became famous. The rubber stamp operation moved into the building in the mid-’50s and hasn’t changed its appearance since. Unpolished wooden walls and timeworn, long-defunct machinery bought as early as the ’30s create pure nostalgia. Lending a touch of retro are autographed headshots of ’80s celebrities including stars of TV’s The A-Team. Add the reliably warm, well-mannered service and you’re in for a retail experience that is truly from a bygone time. 6564 Santa Monica Blvd., Hollywood. (323) 463-3111, hrsco.com. —Noelle Loh

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