LUBBOCK, Texas — For Black History Month, EverythingLubbock.com searched all over Lubbock for the oldest black-owned business that still serves the community. For 63 years and counting, Paul’s Barbershop has stayed on 1518 East 19th Street to cut hair and create a welcoming community.
The original name of the barber shop was “Jo and Paul’s Barbershop,” with its doors opening back in 1962. These two friends, Jo and Paul, were heavily involved in the community and had a goal to create a space of their own.”A place of healing,” said Reggie Russell.
Reggie Russell has been working at the shop for 23 years, and to him, “what has been created here is not just a business but a family. When someone walks into the shop, they are no longer just a ‘customer’.” This shop has seen many Lubbock locals and leaders:
The story of Danny Hardaway, Texas Tech’s first Black athlete
- Dr. Joseph Alvin Chatman — Built the first hospital to serve the Lubbock Black population, currently called Chatman Community Health Center.
- “Mr. Stubbs” Christopher B. Stubblefield — Owner of Stubbs BBQ
- Baron Batch — Former Texas Tech Football player from 2006 – 2010
- Tony Battie — Former Texas Tech Basketball player from 1994 – 1997
- Tracy Martin — Father of Trayvon Martin, a 17-year old who was fatally shot in 2012 by a Florida neighborhood watch volunteer, sparking widespread protests. Read more here.
The current owner is Veilisha Mitchell, 58, a Lubbock local who went to the shop while growing up. Her brother Victor Mitchell has been working as a barber at the shop for 32 years. He says, “The spirit of all workers is what keeps the core value of the shop…