Black barbershops in Anderson: Why this story matters to me
As a habitual state jumper — from the Midwest, to the West Coast, and now the South — I have had the thorough experience of searching for the perfect barber's chair over the past seven years.
The fresh trim of a haircut may only last for two weeks, but the interpersonal experience is something a good-cultured shop will never allow you to forget.
I found it important to tell a story about the barbershop scene in Anderson, and how the pandemic and technology have altered the industry and changed local practices around a culturally significant business in an urban community.
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"Barbershops are at the cutting edge of cultural change," Paul Robinson, chairman of the South Carolina Board of barbers, said. "It's still a very vibrant business. They have a purpose to exist, not to just make money."
From the oldest Black barbershop in Anderson, M&J Barbershop, to the unlicensed person cutting hair in his basement, they all matter, because there is a tranquility that exists within the Black barbershop experience.
It provides a space for Black and brown men to congregate and speak freely about the things that our lives revolve around: religion, politics, sports, relationships, and more.
Historically, these shops have been discovered through word of mouth recommendation, proximity to a neighborhood, or a friend we have always known.
Now, there are phone applications that can show a barber's portfolio, a link to book an appointment, and testimonials about a customer's haircut encounter.
There are many different things happening in all of our communities, but as the church, the Black barbershop is usually a staple within. They are a sense of home, and the place our fathers, uncles, and cousins took us as kids.
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"People just come to vent," Quincy Adams said, owner of Brush From Above in downtown Anderson. "They just want to hear what's going on. I think that's what draws people to a personal barber."
It serves as a therapy session with the great essence of a nice, tapered haircut.
What is known as a drop fade in the South is a shadow fade in the West, and a low-light blend in the Midwest.
As the regional lingo changes the name of a given haircut, the nourishment and comfort inside of these barbershops are what resonate more than the fresh look.
There are many barbershops across the city of Anderson, all with different styles and cultures to showcase.
Finding the right one is more than just a haircut, but is an esoteric experience.
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A.J. Jackson is a general assignment reporter for the Independent Mail. Contact him by email at ajackson@gannett.com with story ideas and leads, also follow him on Twitter @AJhappened
This article originally appeared on Anderson Independent Mail: Anderson urban barbershop experience, why it matters
