Comb, Hair

Object number2008.33.9

MediumVarious metals; Plastic

Credit LineGift of Marsha V. Lambria

DescriptionElectric heated hair comb. Metal teeth on metal rod. Plastic black handle with brown border. Plastic-covered wire with plug on end. Brown wood plastic rectangular box on plug wire, with circular knob that spins; point on edge of knob with metal peg on box that it touches.Dimensions1 x 9.5 in. (2.5 x 24.1 cm)
InscriptionsEngraving on plug prong "A.I.W.C."; encircled, "UL".
Historical NotesThis heated comb 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 TextGloria Grate Giddens opened her first hair salon in the Hill District in 1950s followed by the first wig salon on Centre Avenue in 1955 and was the first African American graduate of the Earl Wheeler Finishing and Modeling School (1951). Her businesses expanded to include clothing and Gloria’s own line of cosmetics. She sponsored charm schools for girls at the Hill District YMCA and participated in annual hair shows at Schenley High School and other Hill District venues. Recognized as one of the premier African American fashion models in the city she was often featured in the Pittsburgh Courier as one of the city’s best dressed women. This hair comb was from her last salon located on Kelly Street and North Dallas Avenue in Homewood.

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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