After more than six decades serving generations of customers in Pinecrest, Pete's Barbershop, the iconic barbershop at the Suniland Shopping Center in Miami-Dade, has permanently closed its doors, leaving behind a rich history of community, tradition, and memories.
Founded in 1959 at 11505 South Dixie Hwy, Pete's was not just a place to get a haircut; it was a gathering spot where friendships were woven, stories were shared, and lasting bonds were forged.
Inside the establishment, which seemed frozen in time, the echoes of conversations from decades past still resonated among worn chairs, an old cash register, and framed photographs that told their own stories.
"There we are, my sister and I, on the day my dad bought the store," said a family member of the founder, pointing to a black and white photo with nostalgia.
One of the oldest barbers, Charlie, started working there in 1978. It was his first job and Pete's was his second home, he revealed to Local 10.
Over the years, he attended to clients of all kinds, including baseball stars like Alex Rodríguez and politicians like former Florida governor Jeb Bush, who was a regular customer. "He always came. We took care of him like a friend," he recalled.
There are customers who started coming when they were young, then brought their children, and finally their grandchildren.
The closure of the business is attributed, according to the current owner Howard Fairfield, to the unsustainable rise in rent.
"We're paying $6,055 in rent each month and earning about $4,000. We couldn't continue," he explained.
Fairfield refused to raise its prices to $20 for a haircut, compared to the $40 or $50 charged at other barbershops in the area, out of respect for its clientele. "It would have been crazy to charge more," he stated.
Pete’s last day was a blend of nostalgia and gratitude. Customers, family, and friends gathered to celebrate the final haircuts, share a cake, and toast to the legacy of a barbershop that was much more than that: it was part of the soul of the neighborhood.
"We are deeply grateful for all the support and loyalty of so many over the years," said the owners in an emotional farewell.
Pete's Barbershop is closing its doors, but it leaves an indelible mark on the collective memory of Miami-Dade.
Frequently Asked Questions about the closure of Pete’s Barbershop in Miami-Dade
Why did Pete's Barbershop close after 65 years?
Pete’s Barbershop closed due to the unsustainable increase in monthly rent, which reached $6,055, while the income was only around $4,000. The owner, Howard Fairfield, refused to raise the prices of haircuts to keep them affordable for the community, making it impossible to continue operating.
What was the impact of Pete’s Barbershop on the Miami-Dade community?
Pete's Barbershop was more than just a barber shop; it was a community gathering place where friendships were formed and stories were shared. For decades, it served clients of all ages, including celebrities like Alex Rodríguez and Jeb Bush, becoming a part of the soul of the Pinecrest neighborhood.
How does the closure of this barbershop affect the perception of barbers' lives in Miami?
The closure of Pete's Barbershop reflects the financial challenges faced by barbers in Miami, a city known for its high cost of living. This closure highlights the difficulties of maintaining traditional businesses in an increasingly expensive economic environment, where many barbers struggle to achieve economic stability.
What legacy does Pete's Barbershop leave in Miami-Dade?
Pete’s Barbershop leaves an indelible mark on the collective memory of Miami-Dade. It was a place where enduring community bonds were forged and several generations were served. Despite its closure, its legacy endures in the stories, friendships, and memories created over its 65 years of operation.
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