Barber - Bronzeville - Black Belt Barber 1941 Standard Apron

Colourized photo from 1941 Original title: Barber shop in the Black Belt, Chicago Photographer: Edwin Rosskam Location: 31st & South, Chicago, IL (maybe) A black belt barber, the ability to cut all people's hair, specialising in haircuts for ladies and children. But he can handle a man's haircut as well. This barber was located in the Black Belt of Bronzeville Chicago. The Black Belt location stretched 30 blocks along State St, on the South Side. They were located near the stockyards. The location was made up of many dilapidated buildings, that were later demolished to make room for high rises, which were also later on demolished. If you look carefully you'll see the barber is wearing an elastic cap, this allows to help set tight, close waves in their hair, its called Conking, or perming if it was straight hair. You may see these on people if they plan to go out later at night and want to look good.