My grandmother was born and raised in Orangeburg, South Carolina and she was well known in her community for her incredible gift of doing hair. She even had a small salon built on the side of her house where women would come not just for hairstyles, but for conversation, confidence, and care. Her clients especially loved getting Jerry curls (shiny, bouncy), and full of life, just like the atmosphere she created. She had a way of making people feel beautiful inside and out. 

Long before modernized flat irons and blow dryers were invented, my grandma worked her magic with old school tools such as a straightening comb and curling iron heated on the stovetop. My grandma would place the metal iron on the flame testing the heat by waving it in the air or tap it on a towel to prevent her clients hair from burning off. It took patience, persistence and a lot of practice. 

 

– AG

Relationship:  Great-grandchild of im/migrant or more Great-grandchild of im/migrant or more