It’s been 50 years since a Wallingford school teacher and his best friend opened Mankind’s HeadQuarters in Media Borough, writes Peg DeGrassa for the Daily Times.

Current owner Diane Corbett joined the staff in 1978 as a recent graduate of the Gordon Phillips Beauty School. She has been cutting and coloring hair for 44 of the salon’s 50 years.

The salon catered to men only, offering a different atmosphere and a more stylish look than a visit to the barbershop.

In 1980, the shop moved from the Media Town Mall to its current spot at 209 W. State Street, replacing a former barber shop.

Barber chairs dating to the 1900s still sit in the waiting area.

Corbett bought the business in 1994 and today has five full-time stylists. The salon’s name is unchanged, but now men, women, and children can get appointments.

There’s more of a family feel these days, with first cuts for kids, cuts, colors, blowouts, monthly trims for parents, and perms and cuts for grandparents.

The salon also serves as a drop-off point for the Media Food Bank and Lisa’s Army, a nonprofit that provides comfort to individuals undergoing cancer treatments.

Read more at the Daily Times about the 50^th anniversary of ManKind’s HeadQuarters.