The building that houses Doug’s Barber Shop has been in operation in some capacity since around 1929, said current owner Jeff Armstrong, who took over from Dreher in 2014. Of the six barbers who work there now, the longest-tenured has been on staff for more than 25 years, while the shortest has been around for seven years, Armstrong said.
“One of the things I’m most proud of is how little turnover there has been since I took over,” he said.
Doug’s offers all the traditional barbershop services on an appointment and walk-in basis, though appointments are preferred, Armstrong said.
Because the guys on staff have such a broad range of ages, they collectively know how to cut hair to the style of any era, Armstrong said.
“The older guys tend to want their hair cut a certain way, while younger guys might be looking for a fade,” he said. “We have guys who specialize in different styles.”
The walls are strewn with memorabilia from Dreher’s life, including photos, iconic newspaper covers, comic strips related to barbering and items from Ohio, where Dreher grew up. Armstrong said he felt compelled to leave the items up in honor of Dreher, who he said played in instrumental role in making the shop what it is today.
What Dreher brought, and what Armstrong said he looks to continue to create, is a sense of community, where everyone feels like they belong.
“I really enjoy making people feel like they are at home when they come in,” he said. “There is no pretentiousness in here.”
Doug’s Barber Shop
219 E. 11th St., Houston
713-862-0670
www.dougsbarbershop.com
Hours: Mon. 8 a.m.-6 p.m., Tue.-Fri. 8 a.m.-7 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
