Photography by Crystal Wise
Barbershops’ roots run deep, dating back to Ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome. Barbers were highly respected members of the community, and in many cultures, they acted as surgeons, dentists and handled minor medical procedures. The iconic barber pole, originally red and white, represented blood and bandages.
In the Middle Ages, barbers performed bloodletting, tooth extractions and minor surgeries. The practice of “barber-surgeons” continued in Europe for centuries until the profession split in the 1700s…