Business & Tech

Former Hessian Lion Building Has A New Tenant

Many businesses have cycled through the East Main Street building where the former Hessian Lion bar was located.

It was once the Avon General Store in the historic town center, as well as a couple of restaurants and a strip club.

Now the building can add barbershop to its history as John Lumani moves his business next door from his previous location in the little, red former Ye Olde Barber Shoppe building.

His business is growing, so he wanted a bigger space. He looked around, but ultimately he wanted to stay in the historic downtown of Avon.

History is a big part of Lumani's trade. Barbershops have always been a place where people talk and come to get the news of the town. Lumani learns a lot of news before it's publicized from his customers from new businesses moving in to the score of high school games.

Looking around his barbershop is a blast from the past. From a piano to a playable arcade consul and a popcorn maker Lumani plans to refurbish, he said that every item in his store has a story. He's gotten many artifacts from estate sales and antique shops. They make for good talking points, tapping into people's nostalgia.

Lumani is focusing on cutting his regular clients' hair as he settles in. He is currently housed in the back part of the building and is renovating the front bar area.

The stage in the back section has become something Lumani has always wanted to incorporate into his business, a man cave. Complete with comfy couches and chairs, a flat screen and vintage video games and pool tables the Hessian Lion left behind, he has created the ultimate hangout for his clients as they wait for their haircuts. Many clients from the Residence Inn Mariott have come in looking for a place to play pool, he said.

Haircuts for men start at $21. Lumani hopes to employ his wife and brother. His wife is currently expecting their third child and will bring women's haircuts to the business in the future.


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