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Experience Hyde Park.

A neighbourhood institution. A century of stories. A working Chicago barbershop.

People already travel here to see the shop. We are building a proper way to welcome them — without interrupting the haircuts. None of this is bookable yet.

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Centennial Programming

Curated HPHS Experiences

Curated access to a century of South Side culture, presidential history, and community storytelling.

Neighborhood Journey

South Side Heritage Walking Tour

A guided walking itinerary connecting the original 1927 Harper Theater building (1464 E. 53rd St.), the current salon on Blackstone Avenue, and historic South Side cultural institutions, exploring a century of neighborhood evolution.

Gallery, Living History & Sound

HPHS Museum Experience

An in-shop experience combining three signature centennial exhibits into one comprehensive historical showcase:

  • The Centennial Exhibition: A rotating archival installation showcasing rare photography, historical newspaper clippings from the Hyde Park Herald dating back to 1935, vintage barber tools, and documents tracing our lineage from Joe Taylor's 1927 shop to Leroy Cain's 1967 integration and modern day.
  • The Presidential Chair Experience: View the official, acrylic-encased Barber Chair #1 where President Barack Obama received his signature haircut starting in 1994. Recognized by the Illinois Office of Tourism, the display features authentic presidential artifacts and insights into Zariff's 30+ years styling history.
  • Oral History Listening Stations: Curated audio capsules featuring first-hand reflections of shop elders, veteran barbers, university scholars, and Hyde Park neighbors discussing the civil rights era, Naim Sabree's prayer tradition, and the historic Election Night 2008 gathering.
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