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Barber Dan’s Established 2004
Dan Fritch, aka Barber Dan, has owned the barbershop on 128 Main Street since 2004. It has been a family-owned and operated shop since 1906. For over a hundred years, it has been a special place where real men could gather, get their haircuts, and chew the fat about all the happenings in and around Zelienople.
Barber Dan is only the fourth barber to work at 128 South Main Street in Zelienople since 1906. The original barber was Bill Kloffenstein from 1911 to 1957, followed by Sam Hartmann until 1967. Bill Eppinger remodeled the shop in 1967 and sold it to Barber Dan in 2004. The shop was refreshed in 2004 and again in 2020.
Over 98% of our haircuts can be conveniently booked online with email confirmations and reminders. You can also book by phone at (724) 452 8220. Walk-ins are given the next available time.
Barber Dan’s is where real men can get a tapered haircut in only fifteen minutes.
The history of Barber Dan’s is the story of Bill Eppinger learning the barber trade from his father Hugh Eppinger, who learned the craft from his Uncle Leban Eppinger. Bill Eppinger taught his stepson Dan Fritch. Barber Bill retired in April 2023 at the tender age of 84 after 67 years of barbering. Barber Dan has a couple of decades to go before he can even consider retirement.
Book your next haircut appointment here at Barber Dan’s and join into the many conversations Dan and his customers provide. Just click the red ( Book Appointment ) button at the top of this page and you’ll be ready to join in.
Zelienople, PA: A Journey Through History (1850-1906)
Zelienople, Pennsylvania, nestled in the lush landscape of Butler County, holds a rich history that stretches back to the mid-19th century. Founded in 1802 by German immigrants, it flourished as an agricultural community. However, it was during the period from 1850 to 1906 that Zelienople experienced significant growth and transformation, shaping its identity as a vibrant town.
In the mid-19th century, Zelienople saw a surge in population due to the construction of the Pittsburgh, Fort Wayne and Chicago Railway, which passed through the area. This railway connection facilitated the transportation of goods and people, fueling economic development. Industries such as lumber, agriculture, and manufacturing thrived, contributing to the town’s prosperity.
One of the pivotal moments in Zelienople’s history occurred during the Civil War era. Despite its small size, the town played a role in supporting the Union cause. Many of its residents enlisted in the Union Army, and Zelienople served as a stop on the Underground Railroad, providing refuge for escaped slaves seeking freedom.
As the 19th century progressed, Zelienople evolved into a bustling commercial center. The establishment of businesses, schools, churches, and civic institutions laid the foundation for a thriving community. Notably, the town became known for its pottery industry, with several pottery factories operating in the area, producing high-quality ceramics that were in demand nationwide.
In 1880, Zelienople was officially incorporated as a borough, solidifying its status as a distinct municipal entity. The incorporation provided the town with greater autonomy and allowed for more organized governance.
Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Zelienople continued to grow and diversify. The introduction of electricity and modern infrastructure further propelled its development. The town’s cultural scene flourished with the establishment of theaters, social clubs, and community events, fostering a sense of camaraderie among its residents.
However, like many communities of its time, Zelienople faced challenges as well. Economic fluctuations, labor disputes, and natural disasters tested the resilience of its inhabitants. Despite these obstacles, the town persevered, adapting to changing circumstances and maintaining its sense of identity.
In 1906, Zelienople celebrated its centennial anniversary, reflecting on a century of progress and prosperity. The occasion served as a reminder of the town’s enduring spirit and the contributions of generations past.
In conclusion, the period from 1850 to 1906 marked a significant chapter in the history of Zelienople, Pennsylvania. From its humble beginnings as a rural settlement to its emergence as a thriving borough, Zelienople’s journey exemplifies the resilience and ingenuity of small-town America. Today, as Zelienople continues to evolve, its rich heritage remains a source of pride for its residents, ensuring that its legacy endures for generations to come.
Zelienople, 1906 to Present
Zelienople, Pennsylvania, a small borough in Butler County, has an interesting history that spans from its establishment in the early 19th century to the present. The period from 1906 onwards is particularly notable for several developments and events that have shaped the community.
Early 20th Century (1906-1945): Zelienople continued to grow modestly during the early part of the 20th century. The town was primarily a local commercial hub, serving the agricultural surroundings with goods and services. The arrival of the automobile brought new roads and infrastructure improvements. The community was relatively insulated from world events, although World War I and World War II saw many of its residents participate and contribute to the war efforts. During the Great Depression, Zelienople, like many small towns, faced economic hardships, but its close-knit community helped it weather the worst impacts.
Post-War Period and Growth (1946-1970): The post-World War II era was a time of significant change and growth for Zelienople. The economic boom in the United States was mirrored in the borough with the expansion of local businesses and an increase in population. Residential developments began to appear as people sought the tranquility of small-town life away from the industrial centers of Pittsburgh.
Modernization and Development (1971-Present): The latter part of the 20th century and the early 21st century have seen Zelienople continue to modernize while striving to maintain its historical charm. The downtown area has been revitalized, with efforts to preserve historic buildings and improve public spaces. The community has increasingly become a bedroom community for people working in the Pittsburgh metropolitan area, leading to further residential development. The local government and community organizations have been active in promoting cultural events, improving public amenities, and maintaining a high quality of life for residents.
Throughout its recent history, Zelienople has managed to retain its unique identity as a small American town while adapting to the changes and challenges of the times. The town remains a vibrant community, proud of its heritage and optimistic about its future.
