History of the Barber Pole

The barber pole has a wonderful and interesting story to tell. It's presence today keeps the story alive. It is thought to be the oldest distinguishing mark of any profession or craft, dating back before the birth of Christ. History tells us that barber service was rendered to the public at least as early as 6,000 BC. Hair and beard trimming (barbering), administering herbs (medicine), tooth pulling (dentistry), and blood letting (surgery) were all performed by the same individuals in early history. They were then called "Barber-Surgeons."

Because of the services they rendered, especially to royalty, these barber-surgeons were among the most respected and protected citizens alive. They held this respect for thousands of years. During their practice of surgery, which consisted of blood letting or bleeding the disease, a white cloth was used as a wrap or bandage. In those days of primitive sanitation, the cloth was used again and again. The barber-surgeon simply rinsed out the cloth and hung it in the doorway of the shop to dry.

Thus the red and white twisted cloth became the emblem of the profession. As hundreds of years passed, the original cloth became today's gleaming red and white striped glass pole which now represents only the professional grooming aspect of barbering. The doctors, dentists, and surgeons have long since moved away, leaving the barber pole the exclusive property of the artistic barbering profession. For those of you that are not in the Profession can now see that the "Hair Business" is a Profession and not just a "beauty operator" or "barbers" as many think of us. You are right, we are not "maids" and certainly are not "servants" What do you think?