Tarbert newcomers might easily overlook the inconspicuous building across from the Waterside Café. However, the small pretty sign that reads “Isle Style” marks a former hair salon which also served as an unofficial community hub. With the property having gone on the market a few weeks ago, we look back at the times when the Hearach hair was in the careful care of the Barber.
Donald Mackenzie, Carragraich, known in the community as “the Barber”, opened the doors of “Isle Style” in February 1990, but he had been providing his services in Tarbert since the 1960s. Mr Mackenzie, who did his barber course in Glasgow, worked in Dingwall and had also been in charge of a barbershop and hair salon in Grantown-on-Spey before he decided to return to Harris.
Originally based in a building owned by the Harris Tweed Association, Mr Mackenzie used to do tweed stamping as well as barbering. Eventually, he started catering to further needs of both locals and tourists (taxi, deliveries, and selling various items in the barbershop). His entrepreneurial spirit is obvious when he describes how he acquired over 30 bicycles to offer for hire.
The barbershop and hair salon offered its services to both ladies and gentlemen. Aside from the Barber, the clientele was well taken care of by the trainees and hairdressers. “It was a great place to work, and the Barber was a good boss,” says Diana MacLennan, a former hairdresser. The “Isle Style” used to be busy until late in the evening to accommodate customers coming from the ferry. It was also frequented by local bus drivers. We were told many entertaining stories about the times in the barbershop, most of them introduced with a warning to not include them in the Dè tha dol?. If the readers want to satisfy their curiosity, they can always ask around. We can promise that many will be happy to reminisce.
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