Barber poles are more than colorful decorations outside shops. Their striped design hides a surprisingly morbid history.
What does the barber’s pole represent?
The barber’s pole has a long-standing symbolism tied to the profession.
The red and white stripes represent bloodletting, an ancient medical practice once performed by barbers. In Europe, the poles are traditionally red and white.
In the United States, blue is often added, with some suggesting it symbolizes veins or reflects patriotism.
Barbers were also surgeons in the past
Barbers weren’t always just hairdressers. During the medieval period, they performed medical procedures like bloodletting, pulling teeth, and treating wounds.
Bloodletting involved removing blood to treat or prevent illness.
While monks initially performed the procedure, Pope Alexander III banned clergymen from practicing it in 1163. Barbers, already skilled with sharp tools, took over this role.
The barber’s pole design has roots in these medical practices.
The red symbolizes blood, while the white represents bandages used to clean up after procedures.
Some theories suggest the blue stripe in American barber poles may symbolize veins or serve as a patriotic nod to the U.S. flag.
How this history surprises modern readers
The barber pole’s history has shocked many people online. Reddit users recently discussed this lesser-known origin, with reactions ranging from surprise to fascination.
One user noted, Today I learned the barber pole symbolizes the bloody bandages of barber-surgeons who practiced bloodletting.
Other theories emerged in the discussion, such as red for blood, white for shaving foam, and blue for water.
Another user pointed out that the pole’s spinning motion simply catches attention, making it an effective shop sign.
@adamstewartmarketing The crazy story behind the barbershop pole 💈 #barbershop #business #marketing #branding
Another said: they also were dentists!
A second wrote: They was called the barber surgeons. Who was banned from practising.
While a third commented: Early surgeons were barbers too because their hands were steady and accustomed with sharp razors.
Another added: They use to be called barber surgeons.
Someone else said: Also: It is the reason why when a doctor specializes in surgery – the Dr is changes to Mr.
The barber pole stands as a reminder of the profession’s evolution from bloodletting surgeons to modern-day hairstylists.
While its history may seem gruesome, the pole’s design remains a symbol of tradition and craftsmanship. Next time you pass a barbershop, you’ll know the story behind its iconic emblem.