03/07/2025
💈 Ever wondered about the curious origin of the barber pole?
In medieval times, barbers weren't just responsible for haircuts and shaving beards—they also pulled teeth, performed bloodletting, and handled minor surgeries. Often, they were the only option available when pain struck.
During bloodletting procedures, patients would grip a pole tightly, helping the blood flow down the arm into a basin. Afterwards, bloodied bandages were proudly hung on that same pole to dry—transforming it into a bold advertisement.
This practice gave birth to the iconic barber pole: a white cylinder wrapped with red stripes.
📍 White represented bandages.
📍 Red symbolized blood.
📍 Blue was later added to differentiate barbers from professional surgeons.
In 1745, England officially separated barbers from surgeons, leading surgeons to form their own guild, which eventually became the Royal College of Surgeons.
Barbers continued to use their distinctive pole, but now with blue stripes symbolizing their new professional identity, distinct from medical doctors.
Today, centuries later, the spinning barber pole remains a familiar sight outside barber shops—a subtle reminder of an era when a barber's razor could quite literally save your life.
