On the Summit’s Horizon: Jerrell’s Barbershop
By Rev. Christopher W. Riley
FWIS Contributing Writer
“It all started as a dream. A dream of me using a pair of clippers. Now the way the clippers were used in the dream and the correct use was totally different. I learned this in Mr. Jay’s Barber College in Indianapolis.” said entrepreneur and veteran barber, Jerrell Davenport.
Davenport was inspired by two of Fort Wayne’s iconic barbers, Pastor Mozell Davis and the late Will Anderson. Pastor Davis allowed me to sweep the shop and I had no idea that barbering was a part of my destiny. Pastor Davis had a Checkerboard in his shop, and we currently play Chess in the shop.” said, Davenport.
Pastor Davis’ shop was on Pontiac and Jerrell’s first shop was also on Pontiac, a location where he remained for 15 years. “Jerrell wanted his own building and not to work for anyone.” said Perry Davenport, Jerrell’s Father.
“He was never in any trouble. I am proud of him and his wife who have done an excellent job raising their boys. The Senior Davenport was instrumental in creating the popular tagline, “We Cut it, You Strut it.” “I presented three different taglines for his business card, and he chose, We Cut it, You Strut it.”
There is a cliché, behind every great man, there is a great woman. In reference to Elethia Davenport, she has walked along side of her husband in this journey of entrepreneurship.
“Not being a risk-taker myself, I had to learn to have faith in his dreams and necessary risk as an entrepreneur.” said Elethia Davenport. These risks have included the faith-walk of renting space on Pontiac and Warsaw to building a shop on South Clinton.
“My husband Jerrell’s entrepreneurial mind never ceases to amaze me! His dreams, aspirations and innovative ideas have required risks that have turned out to be successful! I am honored to be the wife of an entrepreneur.”
Davenport has been at the South Clinton site since 2006. Since that time the business has expanded to include a full-service beauty salon, (Strutables Hair & Nail) as well as the retail distribution of barber and beauty products. He has also included apparel and body oils and while waiting for service you could also purchase a snack or beverage.
“Jerrell”s Barber Shop has been serving families for countless years with more than just cosmetic services, Jerrell’s has established itself as a safe and family-friendly environment. said, Iric Headley, founding executive director of Fort Wayne United which is a mayoral initiative that brings together Cities United and My Brother’s Keeper under one umbrella to enhance opportunities, advance youth advocacy and help create a safer city, specifically for Black men and boys. Headley is currently the Director of Business Development with Surack Enterprises.
Online Reviews of the Shop
“Been going here for a while now and they are the only ones I'll go to anymore. Everywhere else I've gone to has messed either my hair or beard up. Duran is my go-to every time. He does exactly what I want and ask every time. Hands down my favorite barber in Fort Wayne.”
“Looking for a great barbershop experience? Look no further than Jerrell’s Barbershop in Fort Wayne, Indiana! Lenny the barber is not only an excellent barber, but also a fantastic friend. The shop has a positive and welcoming environment and is even kid friendly. Plus, you can browse and purchase snacks, drinks, hats, shirts, and barber supplies while you're there. Come see for yourself why Jerrell’s Barber Shop is the go-to spot for all your hair care needs! #barbershop #FortWayne #haircare #positivevibes”
“Out of all the barbershops out there, Jarrell is the only one that actually got everything right and I only had to explain at one time. That tells a lot about a barber when most of them out there must keep having you repeat what you want and how you want your cut. 100% the best barber yet 5-star barber shop”
“I am honored to be apart of the Brotherhood of Barbers in the city of Fort Wayne. I have been blessed to have great barbers as a part of the team. The entire journey has been one blessing after another. God truly has his hands on me and the vision,” said Jerrell Davenport.
Jerrell’s Barbershop, (260)456-8994
Strutables Hair and Nail Salon (260)456-1721
2104 South Clinton Street
You can also follow Jerrell’s Barbershop on Facebook.