Sign, Trade

Object number2008.33.4

MediumGlass; metal

Credit LineGift of Marsha V. Lambria

DescriptionGlass sign mounted on metal. In silver lettering is business information with arrow bookending last word. Concaved circular edges.Dimensions0.5 x 8 x 15.5 in. (1.3 x 20.3 x 39.4 cm)
InscriptionsIn silver lettering, "BEAUTY / SHOPPE / ENTRANCE".
Historical NotesSign 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. 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 two beauty shops in the Hill District, one of which was the first and only wig salon for African Americans on Centre Avenue. Both stores eventually expanded to include clothing and Gloria's own line of cosmetics. 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.

Related institution Golden Hair Salon

Related person Gloria G. Giddens (1925 - 2006)

Related institution Earl Wheeler Finishing and Modeling School

Related institution Young Men's Christian Association

Subjects