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Barber celebrates 100th birthday

A barbershop and its barber in Hazleton is celebrating a major milestone.

HAZLETON, Pa. — Battley's Barbershop has been open for business on Poplar Street in Hazleton for more than 100 years.

Back when the shop first opened its doors, and while trends have come and gone over a century. The man behind the chair has stayed the same.

"Quarter for a haircut, ten cents for a shave," said Jim Battley, Battley's Barbershop Owner. "Before there was a crew cut, then there was a flat top."

Jim Battley started working for his dad at just 11 years old. Growing up during the great depression.

"The shop was built in 1922. I was born in 1924, and I've been barbering ever since," said Battley. "I never went to college; I never even went to high school. I only went up to eighth grade. My dad said you need to quit school in order to work. So, I quit, and I had to go to work."

He's been working ever since, clippers in hand for the next 89 years.

Over that time, Jim gained quite a lot of clientele in Hazleton.

"I have seven priests," said Battley. "I'm very close with the priests in case I need them. You know."

As he celebrated his 100th birthday this week, Jim's wit stays as sharp as his shears.

Despite reaching this major milestone, Jim has no plans to slow down anytime soon. Keeping his spot behind the chair, as he has for the past century.

"If I didn't love it, I would've quit years ago. But I love what I do," added Battley.

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