Images(3)

Dryer, Hair

Object number2008.33.2

Manufacturer Helene Curtis Industries, Incorporated

MediumWood; Plastic; Paint; Various metals

Credit LineGift of Marsha V. Lambria

DescriptionBrown vinyl salon chair with hair dryer.DimensionsHeight x Width x Length: 49 × 20.25 × 32 in. (124.5 × 51.4 × 81.3 cm)
MarksMaker's mark: metal label to left of dryer, rectangular green with words in silver: "Helene Curtis / MAGIC-AIRE / COOL-TEMP".
Historical NotesDryer chair used in the Golden Hair Salon, located in the Hill District. Part of a collection belonging to Gloria G. Giddens owner of the Golden Hair Salon in the Hill District and Homewood from the 1950s to the 2000s. Gloria G. Giddens was born August 10, 1925, and was one of the first African American women to graduate from Earl Wheeler Finishing and Modeling School, a previously all-white school, in 1951. She owned and operated two separate hair salons and a wig shop in the Hill District on Centre Avenue. In addition, she operated a clothing boutique, sponsored fashion shows, and developed a cosmetic line. When she wasn't spending her time hobnobbing with Pittsburgh's African American social elite, Gloria sponsored charm schools for African American girls at the Hill District YMCA, serving as a role model to countless young ladies. She died from cancer in 2006.Label TextSalon chair with hair dryer, used in Gloria Golden’s salon located in Pittsburgh’s Homewood neighborhood, 1960s. Salon chair with hair dryer, used in Gloria Golden’s salon located in Pittsburgh’s Homewood neighborhood, 1960s

Related person Gloria G. Giddens (1925 - 2006)

Related institution Golden Hair Salon

Related institution Earl Wheeler Finishing and Modeling School

Related institution Young Men's Christian Association

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