ABOUT

In 2015, a small group of friends gathered in small room. They made a drink and discussed the possibility of creating a place where men of all generations and walks-of-life could gather to hang out, grab a drink, meet a friend, and get a haircut. That night, The Blockhouse was born.

The Blockhouse is a place where every man can feel welcome.  In that spirit, The Blockhouse dedicates the lion’s share of its space for developing relationships through community. The Blockhouse is proud to be the first legitimate Barbershop and full bar in the city (we think in the state).

“The Blockhouse design comes from our desire to have a place where we would want to hang out. Concrete, wood, steel and whiskey...every aspect of our concept is built around that desire.” explains co-founder Jerrod Brown.  “We wanted to build a place where men can go and feel comfortable getting a haircut while also offering a space and atmosphere where you don’t feel like you have to rush in and out. Come early, stay late.”

The Blockhouse name was inspired by our region’s frontier history. “A Blockhouse was a one room fort on the edge of a wilderness, that offered a safe haven for travelers during their cross country journeys” says co-founder Tom Hockensmith.  “We want to offer men a cool place to hang.  We want guys to find rest and relaxation in our Blockhouse prior to going back out on their journey.” 

“Mens’ hair cutting has been my passion for decades”, says founder Matt Fine.  “As a current salon owner, I’ve seen some men who are reluctant to come into the salon. Some guys will just feel more comfortable in a barber chair with a beer in hand instead of between two ladies getting full highlights. I feel the unique environment we are creating with The Blockhouse offers an experience men appreciate. We want to honor the tradition of the old school barber shop, while offering modern cutting and styling. We are creating community through quality haircuts and drinks.”

“We hope you leave feeling encouraged and holding a new sense of confidence!" 

STORYTIME

When you are young, certain people will make a huge impact in your life.  No one has the ability to make an impact quite like an amazing grandpa.  My grandfather was the type of guy who built his own home with his own mind and hands.  He was a committed husband, a gentle father, a loyal friend, had a sincere faith and was a damn hard worker.

As I spent summer nights in the house he built, I can remember watching him get ready for bed.  After his shower, he would stand in the mirror and draw a hot sink of water for a shave.  He would lather up, shave correctly, and finish with soothing lotion.  He would then open a drawer and grab a simple black comb and Brylcream to maneuver the hair just right.  After a light hair spray, he was ready for bed. 

Looking back, I often wonder why he did it.  He made himself look great simply to fall asleep.  There is much to learn from days of old.  In this particular case, it was a sense of pride and consistency.  That generation of gentlemen wanted to look good.  They knew when you look good, you feel good.  When you feel good, you act good.  When you act good, you are good.  

Now, years later, we are starting to see a new generation care about their appearance.  With this spirit, we decided to start The Blockhouse.  It’s amazing what mental shift takes place when you take pride in your appearance.  You walk with more confidence.  We don’t just cut hair at the Blockhouse. We take pride in the opportunity to make men, both young and old, feel more like gentlemen.  We aim to be their refuge in the wilderness.

Comb with respect,

Matt Fine

Blockhouse Co-Founder