General Mercantile & Old Time String Shop has been a fixture in historic downtown Nacogdoches since 1978, when Steve first opened the Oldtime String Shop in a building that once housed Stone’s Cafe‚where Bonnie Parker worked before her infamous partnership with Clyde Barrow. Operating out of this century-old structure, Steve brings over 42 years of experience in repairing and building acoustic stringed instruments, establishing himself as a trusted luthier for players throughout East Texas.

The shop specializes in guitar repair, setup work, and fretwork for acoustic instruments, with a focus on making each guitar play more easily and suit the player’s individual preferences. Beyond instrument repair services, Steve and Sheryl have cultivated an old-fashioned atmosphere that honors simpler times, expanding to include an authentic general store stocked with vintage merchandise, housewares, and musical accessories.

Every Saturday afternoon since the shop’s inception, they’ve hosted old time acoustic jam sessions, creating a community hub for traditional music enthusiasts. This combination of skilled guitar tech services, historic charm, and genuine passion for acoustic music makes the Oldtime String Shop a unique destination for musicians seeking quality craftsmanship.