Roots is a family of hairdressers, who have been tracing their roots, and have discovered their genealogical tree stretches back more than 300 years. Keith Bailey, his son Mark and daughter Jemma have identified their ancestors – the Burns family – who were involved in hairdressing three centuries ago.
Keith is to publish a book chronicling the history of hair from the ancient Egyptians alongside running their salons in Chilton and Newton Aycliffe. Called “Style, Sphinx and the Sixties”, the book will prove as useful research to hairdressers as they study their craft.
“We knew we were from a long line of hairdressers and barbers but were surprised to unearth the Burns family who were in the trade 300 years ago,” said Keith, who is also a photographer and has exhibited his work in the region and London.
“We have decided to mark the discovery with a family tree on the wall of the newly refurbished Chilton Salon detailing the generations of hairdressers.”
Keith paid £50 for his first salon, a tin shed just yards from his current business in Chilton, when he was just 19. After studying at Durham and Leeds Universities and Cleveland College of Art and Design, he has traced the history of hairdressing back to Egyptian times analysing hair dressing techniques, body image and its impact on society.
Hairdressing remains in his blood and that of his family. Mark, who has painted the family tree in the salon, returns home every six weeks to conduct training seminars. Mark works as a hairdresser, and his work has appeared in Vogue, Elle, Marie Claire and has many famous friends and clients including Kylie Minogue.
Jemma, who trained as a hairdresser, gave up a top job with Cadburys, to join the family firm as business development manager.
“I am researching a range of products not currently available in the North-East,” she said. “I would like to introduce the idea of hair bars where you can come in and use the salon to blow dry your hair.”
Mark said: “We are also looking at holding model and consultation days.” Keith added: “It is so rewarding to see my children as passionate about hairdressing as I am and with so many great ideas. The fact the family has been part of the profession for centuries validates our efforts and inspires us to take the business forward.” Contact Keith on 07719 592302 or email at baileykeith2005@hotmail.com.