Holdeman is oldest working barber in Kansas
Bill Holdeman, owner and operator of Holdeman's Barber Shop, Marion, is the oldest, registered working barber in the state of Kansas.
Holdeman was given this distinction April 13 by an inspector during an annual inspection by the state board of barbering.
In 1954, Holdeman started barbering after completing his training at Kansas School of Barbering in Wichita.
He previously worked 26 years in Newton as a barber. He moved to Marion in 1995 and has been operating his shop in Marion since that time.
Holdeman has noticed men's hairstyle trends evolve but some have returned.
"The flat top was popular in the mid-'50s (1955-57)," said Holdeman, "and they're popular now."
Holdeman notes about 50 percent of haircuts he currently gives are flat tops.
Asked if he has in the past or currently cuts women's hair, Holdeman answered he has cut some but mainly sticks with men's haircuts.
Turning 80 on Dec. 26, Holdeman has no plans to quit any time soon. However, his hours in the shop have changed.
"I worked for 26 years (in Newton)," said Holdeman, "and never took a vacation. I'm taking them now."
