Larry ‘Dove Man’ Harghes, Mobile Vendor: ‘Aldi Left, I Did Not’ 

I met Larry Harghes, an independent mobile vendor, in a vacant lot near Madison and Hamlin — the same lot where an Aldi once stood. A Pan-African flag waves above his setup like the Cubs’ W after a win. When the flag’s up, Larry’s open for business. 

“Most people call me Dove Man — like the soap,” he says, smiling. “I’m out here every day except Sunday, Monday, and bad weather.”

Harghes has worked this corner for nearly four years, selling hygiene products from his car.

“I’m an independent mobile vendor. That’s somebody who goes place to place selling merchandise out of their vehicle. I can sell anywhere in Chicago. I picked this spot because it’s a desert — not much access to stores. So I try to accommodate people. Business is constant. I take cash, Cash App, Zelle.”

He’s retired now, after 23 years in healthcare.

“I retired four, maybe five years ago, and got bored. I make enough to support myself, but this isn’t just about me. Hygiene is a necessity — men, women, children — everybody needs it. Folks ask for certain things, and I try to get them. I was born and raised in West Garfield Park.”

He gestures toward the empty lot beneath his feet.

“I remember when this area was bustling,” he says. “I’m not going to tell you my age, but I remember when there were Black-owned stores all up and down this strip — Flagg Bros., bowling alleys, churches, theaters. This spot used to be an Aldi’s. I joke with people: ‘Aldi left. I did not.’”

“Aldi’s left a lot of Black and Brown neighborhoods, and nothing replaced it. So this is my contribution. I’m not nonprofit, but I’m bringing something this area needs — and I’m licensed. If you want to get licensed, go down to City Hall’s Small Business Affairs office. Fees run maybe $100 to $300, depending on what you sell. Renew every two years. Get legal so you’re protected. Pay your taxes.”