Nicholas TillmanNearly four years after rebuilding his barbershop that was once burned beyond recognition, Samuel Jenkins’ Samuel and Sons Barbershop is once again in a state of transition.
Jenkins has decided that on Dec. 18, he will pack up his clippers, move on from the place he worked so hard to rebuild, and pass the torch to another barber.
Jenkins, who soon plans to cut hair from the comfort of his own home, is describing this transition as it just being the right time to pass on the legacy.
“I want to be home more and send my sons off to college. I also feel that with the way crime is in today’s time, it’s not a good for my well-being at this point to remain in this location,” said Jenkins. “Anyone with a cash business at this time knows that it is dangerous in this area and you leave yourself susceptible to robberies having a businesses in this area. It just feels like the right time to pass on the legacy.”
Jenkins, a man who has uplifted the Durham community, believes in the importance of leaving a legacy.
“I’ve rebuilt it [Samuel and Sons Barbershop] and it is time to move on. I believe people should get something, make a profit, and leave it. Once you complete something it’s important to leave a legacy for not only people to remember you, but also to continue what has been started,” said Jenkins.
Jenkins is aware that he has had quite an impact in the Durham community and realizes that those he has affected will sorely miss his accessible presence.
“The community and I will both feel pain when I leave. When I leave, the pain in the community will be like a cut on the knee. Eventually a scab will form and we will begin to heal. Then when we fully heal, we will be stronger and better than before,” said Jenkins.
The news of Jenkins’ abrupt departure has caught many Durham residents by surprise.
“I was surprised when I heard Sam was leaving his shop,” said Durham resident and N.C. Central University student Simon Harrell. “I’m not a customer of his, but I have lived in Durham my whole life and I have definitely heard a lot about him. He is sort of a legend around here man.”
Like others, Harrell also feels that Jenkins leaving will negatively affect the community.
“I personally feel that with Sam leaving his shop it will hurt this community. You got to realize when you have someone who has given so much knowledge and encouragement to young and older people, that person isn’t easily replaced. I know he’s still in Durham and he is still going to be cutting hair at his house, but there is no place like the barber shop man,” said Harrell.
Even though Jenkins is leaving his long time shop, he has assured that he and the legacy that he is leaving will always support the Durham community.
“A lot of times you hear so many negative things about Durham. Sam Jenkins is definitely one of the brighter spots of our community. I’m sure he’s inspired many people here to chase their dreams and let them know that something positive can come out of Durham,” said Harrell.
