This is our ‘Hair-itage’

Historic Places Honouring our Grooming History

If you have noticed more hair-covered upper-lips than normal, don't be alarmed.  These gentlemen are most likely participating in the international movement to raise awareness and funds for men's health, in particular prostate cancer. Known as Movember, participants make a clean shave on November 1^st and proceed to grow a moustache over the next 30 days all while seeking sponsorship for their fine fuzz. In honour of their whisker-growing efforts, here are a few historic places which celebrate Canada's grooming history.

During the early 20^th century development of Port Moody, B.C. this growing community was increasingly in need of basic local services. In 1930, Harry and Florence Etter began a barber shop and beauty salon, known as Etter's Beauty Salon and Barber Shop, on the ground floor of a commercial building and resided in the upper storey.  As the community grew and prospered following the Second World War, John's Barber Shop was established in 1947 adjoining Etter's business.  For many years, these historic places have provided personal grooming services for men and women of all ages.

In Vilna, Alberta men from the surrounding rural hinterland have gathered for decades at the Vilna Pool Hall and Barbershop to meet and, presumably, catch up on the latest gossip. Today, this historic place still features original artifacts, such as cues, balls, barber chairs and more.

On the East Coast, a 19^th century residence in Montague, P.E.I. eventually housed Chester's Barber Shop and Laurie's Beauty Salon (below) among other businesses. Although not built as a barber shop, one of its former residents, Augustine Colin Macdonald, a prominent politician and businessman, sported quite the set of whiskers, but don't take our word for it, see for yourself!

Our historic places: hair today, hair to stay!