Prior to 1958 when Donnie Blair began his employment at Workman’s Barber Shop on the north side of the Savannah square, men in addition to getting their haircut, also got shaved there.

This incident involved Joy Mitchell’s barber career, prior to his becoming associate circuit judge in Andrew County.

A new customer came in for a haircut and shave. While giving him his shave, Joy nicked the fellow and immediately realized he was out of septic powder that was used to stop the bleeding. At that time the barber chair accommodated a disposable paper cover over the headrest for sanitary purposes. Joy tore a piece of the paper and placed it over the small cut. The gentleman got up from the chair and paid for his haircut and shave and handed Joy another dollar bill. Joy commented that this was certainly a generous tip. Yes, the gentleman stated, I’ve had lots of fellows take care of my tonsorial needs, but I’ve never been worked on by a barber, butcher and a paper hanger all in one visit.

Dawn Blair

Rosendale, Mo.