Before Publix, Winn Dixie and other chain supermarkets emerged in the 20th Century, there were markets on open, cobblestone streets somewhere near the center of many small towns throughout America. But for contemporary Americans, the open-air market has become more remote and might now be a small area in a park or public lot where weekend farmers’ markets and flea markets offer a few bins of organic fruits and vegetables and homemade or handmade goods. While the tradition has disappeared from many U.S. cities, permanent, open-air markets still thrive in Africa, Asia, and Europe where vendors set up carts and stalls alongside or even in streets and alleyways where vehicles are prohibited
