After nine decades business is still good for Conroe barbershop

CONROE, TX (KTRK) -- A visit to Shepard's Barber Shop in downtown Conroe, is like a trip to an earlier time. The old fashioned shop provides customers with more than a simple hair cut or a clean shave. It has become a meeting place for generations of men in Montgomery County.

"Well it's a place to come where you feel like you're treated like family, said Leon Apostolo, Owner. "Friendly atmosphere and not just a number and in this day and time that is saying something."

Located at 116 Simonton, the small red brick building was built in 1914, three years after a massive fire destroyed much of downtown Conroe. Except for a short stint as a leather shop, it has been a barber shop for more than 90 years.

It is one of the few barber shops where customers can still get a close razor shave and a hot towel. Long-time customer Ron Lofton has been coming to Shepard's since he was a child.

"I've tried other barber shops at different times, but I always keep coming back here," said Lofton. "This is an experience I think everybody should have."

The walls of Shepard's Barber Shop are a testament to its rich history. While on tour in 1955, Elvis Presley stopped in for a quick haircut. Former Heavyweight boxer Roy Harris has been a customer for almost 80 years.

"Your hair gets too long if you don't go somewhere to get it cut off. I come here regularly just like when I was boxing," said Harris.

Over the years, Shepard's has been a stop for the male performers at the nearby Crighton Theatre. Many would stop in for a quick hair cut before their performances.