87-Year-Old Barber Keeps Detroit's First Black-Owned Barbershop Alive

Vonzie Whitlow has been cutting hair at the same shop for over 63 years, serving generations and giving back to his community.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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At 87 years old, Vonzie Whitlow continues to operate Detroit's first Black-owned barbershop, a legacy he has maintained for over six decades. Whitlow opened the shop in 1963 with his brother Calvin, and it has since become a cornerstone of the community, serving multiple generations of Detroit families. Customers come not just for haircuts, but also for Whitlow's wisdom and encouragement.

Why it matters

The longevity and community impact of Whitlow's barbershop highlights the importance of Black-owned businesses and intergenerational family legacies, especially in a city like Detroit that has faced significant economic and demographic challenges over the years. Whitlow's dedication to his craft and his community has made him a beloved figure in the city.

The details

Vonzie Whitlow opened the barbershop in 1963 with his brother Calvin, who has since passed away. Their father, Howard Whitlow, encouraged the brothers to start the business around the time Vonzie's daughter Zena was born. The shop has become a hub for the community, with customers like Randy Tate having been coming there since they were children. Whitlow's cutting skills were once guided by Raymond Parks, the late husband of civil rights icon Rosa Parks, and Whitlow's grandson Willie Townscl-Whitlow hopes to continue the family legacy.

  • Vonzie Whitlow opened the barbershop in 1963.
  • Vonzie's daughter Zena was born around the time the barbershop opened.

The players

Vonzie Whitlow

An 87-year-old barber who has been cutting hair at Detroit's first Black-owned barbershop for over 63 years.

Calvin Whitlow

Vonzie's younger brother, who partnered with him to open the barbershop in 1963 but has since passed away.

Howard Whitlow

Vonzie and Calvin's father, who encouraged them to start the barbershop business.

Zena Whitlow

Vonzie's daughter, who grew up in the barbershop and has seen her father's legacy continue for generations.

Willie Townscl-Whitlow

Vonzie's grandson, who is a barber at the shop and hopes to continue the family's legacy.

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What they’re saying

“God keeps me motivated.”

— Vonzie Whitlow (wkbw.com)

“He didn't take me to daycare; he took me to work with him.”

— Zena Whitlow (wkbw.com)

“I've been here 63 years, he's been here 63 years.”

— Randy Tate (wkbw.com)

“Don't waste it. Utilize it. Make it come and make it count.”

— Vonzie Whitlow (wkbw.com)

“Always keep something in your pocket if it ain't nothing but a dollar.”

— Vonzie Whitlow (wkbw.com)

The takeaway

Vonzie Whitlow's lifelong dedication to his barbershop and community in Detroit serves as an inspiring example of how small, family-owned businesses can become cornerstones of a neighborhood, providing not just services but also mentorship, wisdom, and a sense of belonging for generations.