We look at 2 barbershops that are also local institutions

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – ONLY on 12, we are looking at two barber shops in Chattanooga who have been here more than 130 years combined.

On Monday’s episode of the CBS sitcom The Neighborhood, we see how a barbershop is a cultural institution.

Barbershops are on every corner of East MLK, but one stands out as the oldest in our community.

“We look forward to making our customers look good. That’s what cutting hair is about”, says Virgil McGee.

McGee has been doing making people look good for several decades and at 85 he says he’s helped multiple generations do just that- look good.

“We have some that have been coming from way back when and not only have they been coming but their children and grandchildren come,” says McGee.

Over in Alton Park, Bears Barbershop has been here on for nearly 50 years (check out their new website).

Larry High ways, “never had an idea that I will be here that long, but I thank God, it’s by God’s grace.”

High says that you get more than a fresh fade when you come in.

“We get all our news here. We get our news before the news gets it and we hear a lot of things and we share a lot of things and we have debates on different things, mostly sports” says High.

“If something is happening in the community or Thursday, the country that has everyone’s attention, including channel 12’s ha ha Ha. We look at it and talk about it” says McGee.

The owner of Bear Barbershop says that they hope their customers leave with the confidence and encouragement to follow their dreams.

“That’s what we need to tell our kids, quit downing them and telling them what they can do, let them know you can accomplish your dreams. Haircuts gives a man confidence,” says High.

High also taught at the Chattanooga barber college and says many of his students doing well and running their own shops all over Chattanooga. Creating spaces for the next generations to come and have a second home.

High says, “This has been a great life I wouldn’t swap my job, life for nobody else’s. It’s not about the money, it’s about the love that people have shown me.”

Virgil Mcgee, at 85, feels he has at least another 15 years still to serve his community.

He says after seeing a 103 year old barber on the news recently, he believes he has at least 18 more years in this community.