Reader report: Ralph’s Barber Shop, closed after more than half a century

Thanks to Eric Shalit for sharing the photos as a tribute to Ralph’s Barber Shop, behind the Chelan Café at 2302 SW Spokane. The shop closed when Ralph retired earlier this month. Eric says, “I believe the shop was in that location since the WS high bridge was built and in a slightly different location prior to the high bridge being built. Ralph’s father had the business before him. It’s been a hangout for longshoreman, steel workers, railyard workers, and many old-timers. This is a real piece of old WS that is now gone. It was well-known for the enormous collection of caps (hats) on the wall.”

Eric says he’d been going to the shop for about 10 years and got one of Ralph’s last haircuts.

P.S. (in response to a comment) No relation to Ralph’s in Admiral, which is open!

Paul January 24, 2016 (4:09 pm)

I’ve been going to Ralph’s Hair Place in Admiral since I moved here and I was sad to see this news. Then I realized that this is about a different Ralph’s barbershop with tons of hats on the walls. How confusing!

WSB January 24, 2016 (5:11 pm)

Paul – sorry, Eric did mention in his e-mail that this is no relation to Ralph’s in Admiral; I will add that. – TR

dsa January 24, 2016 (4:41 pm)

I was disappointed the shop was closed last week, but Ralph certainly had done his time. The photo shows he was getting ready to pull the plug as I can see none of the caps on the walls.

New West Seattle January 24, 2016 (5:27 pm)

How many microapartments can we fit in that space?

Paul January 24, 2016 (5:28 pm)

I had been a regular customer for the last few years, along with my son. Ralph was a consummate professional and gentleman. He will be missed. Best wishes to him during his well deserved retirement!

Tony C. January 24, 2016 (7:45 pm)

WE MISS YOU RALPH!!!!

dhg January 24, 2016 (8:40 pm)

Dang, I am going to miss you, Ralph! I enjoyed getting my hair cut there and I’m overdue for a cut now!

J & M January 24, 2016 (8:46 pm)

My father brought me to Ralph’s one time, mid-70’s, when he was getting a haircut. As a kid, seeing Playboy mags and listening to stories, was interesting. Fast forward to 2000 when I moved to Pigeon Point and heard Ralph’s was still going strong. Same types of mags, and old timers telling stories. Hats off to standing the test of time, offering good service for decades. Thank You

Mark January 25, 2016 (6:43 am)

Will miss getting my haircut while out on a bike ride. Ralph always a pleasure to talk to you . I will see you in the neighborhood though, enjoy you free time nowThanks ,Mark

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