BARBER POLES
FOR SALE

Red and white stripped poles date back to the Middle Ages when barber shop attendants pulled teeth and treated illnesses by bleeding clients, especially with leeches. The red and white colors on the poles represented blood stained white bandages that were washed and hung out to dry. The pole, itself, supposedly represented the staff which the patient clung to during the barber's treatments. Originally, there was a cup at the bottom of the pole to hold the leeches. It is believed that the blue was added as a third color by Americans to commemorate the colors of the flag.

Today many establishments no longer use the barber pole to advertise their business. As a result, the barber poles are becoming increasing hard to find and difficult to restore. The most valuable are the stained glass models with porcelain tops and bottoms. Stationary poles command a higher price than revolving ones as they are older and more difficult to find.

Once you decide to purchase a pole, you will most definitely want a barber chair to complete the atmosphere. The preferred chairs are those which exhibit intricately carved woodwork, iron and brass. These date back to the nineteenth century. They are generally made of oak and are sturdy and comfortable. If you are a perfectionist or really into the barbershop motif, you will want to add racks of shaving mugs, especially those that were personalized with an individual's name, occupation or fraternal organization. Fancy razors made with ivory, tortoise shell, or mother of pearl and intricately carved will help complete the picture. The last items which are always found in old-time barbershops are the small brass cash registers, wooden shoe shine boxes and perhaps a spittoon. Add these together and you have created a picture perfect set-up. You can almost imagine someone saying "Who's next for a shave or haircut."