Modern hair salons in Chicago are specialized establishments where professionals provide various services to men and women, including haircuts, styling, manicures, and makeup. However, these places are not just for transformation; they also offer an environment for relaxation, leisure, and conversation with skilled stylists. Yet, in the 19th century, the hairdressing industry was in its infancy. Let’s delve into how it all began in old Chicago, as detailed here at chicago-future.com.
Early History of Hairdressing
During various archaeological studies, the first razors, dating back to 3500 BC, were found in Egypt. It is known that in the early days of hairdressing, barbers in Ancient Egypt and Greece were highly respected figures, often doubling as priests or doctors. In America, the profession of hairdressing appeared in the early 1900s.
Initially, barber shops were spaces for public performances and social interaction. Most of them were located in the marketplace. As the hairdressing craft evolved, smaller salons emerged, welcoming people of all social classes. Soon, successful barbers began opening luxury salons, accessible only to the elite.
During the Middle Ages, the role and functions of barbers expanded to include various surgical and dental procedures. Barbers didn’t just cut hair and style it; they also pulled teeth, performed surgeries, applied leeches, and even conducted bloodletting. It was believed that illnesses could “escape” through cuts made by the barber during bloodletting.
By the 1800s, barbers no longer provided medical services. Most barber shops in the United States were owned primarily by African Americans.
Chicago as a Hairdressing Hub
Few know that a pivotal moment in the development of the hairdressing industry took place in the city of gangsters. In 1893, Chicago opened the world’s first barber school.
At the turn of the 19th century, hairdressing skills were passed down through apprenticeships and informal training. However, with the increasing demand for skilled professionals, driven by the rapid urbanization and industrialization of American cities, the need for standardized education became clear.
In response, a barber and entrepreneur named Moler, recognizing the importance of education in improving hairdressing and raising professional standards, founded a barber school in Chicago. The institution offered comprehensive training programs that covered not only cutting techniques but also various aspects of hygiene, sanitation, and proper client service.
The establishment of this school marked a shift in how hairdressing was perceived. It transitioned from a simple trade to a prestigious profession. As news of its success spread, similar institutions began to emerge in other major cities, laying the foundation for the modern hairdressing industry.
People from all over the country enrolled in the Chicago Barber School, where they learned the art of shaving, cutting, styling, and personal grooming. Graduates left the school equipped with technical skills and expertise.
Over time, the legacy of the school endured, and it set the standard for barber education and training throughout America.
In essence, the first barber school in America, located in downtown Chicago, became the cornerstone of hairdressing, paving the way for future generations. Modern technologies and methods continue to evolve the craft, with professionals utilizing innovative products and tools to deliver high-quality services to clients.
