Back in the day, my Grandfather’s barbershop was the place where local men went for news. Whatever was happening in the neighborhood was discussed and debated. The transistor radio tuned in to listen in as history was being made on the mound and at the bat. Sometimes the debates about the latest happening or changes in the world would be brought up. Then again, on the right day, you might hear some stories and the lore of yesteryear.

Everybody had a different story. You talk to somebody for twenty minutes and they leave, and you have a brand new person come through the door and you reset. You start all over again.

And while the locals still go to my Grandfather’s barbershop, it’s very much the same for me now. It’s a wonderful career, standing behind the chair, talking with friends all day. Doctors, attorneys, pipe layers, cobblers, bricklayers, and carpenters; a little bit of knowledge being passed on each time. You kind of get schooled as you’re working. I’m much richer today , and all because my Grandfather Delbert took me under his wing and taught me the art of barbering.

Eric Upchurch is a local business owner and life long resident of Natchitoches Parish. As a child, he spent many years in his Grandfather’s barbershop and dreamed of opening his own shop to honor his Grandfather’s tradition. Eric began his apprenticeship in Ruston, Louisiana in 2002 and then returned home to finish his apprenticeship with his Grandfather Delbert. Eric began to drive eighteen wheelers to earn money to open his shop, working night and day to reach his dreams. Eric opened the doors to City Barbershop Pin Up on Friday, June 13, 2008 after years of working hard to achieve his goals. The original location of shop was located in the Broadmoor Shopping center in Natchitoches but after seeing room for growth, Eric and his team of skilled barbers moved to their new location.

Now at 504 Front Street, City Barbershop Pin Up caters to the everyman while keeping up the timed traditions of the barbershop. Eric, with his two associate barbers Katey and Bill, and Apprentice Barber Jon McCart strive to bring a new sense  of tradition and class to the downtown area as they reintroduce the image of the gentleman to Natchitoches Parish.