This marker is located at the site of the barbershop once owned by James E. Eastman, at the corner of North and Congress Streets. It is one of sixteen that make up a walking trail highlighting the people, places and events associated with the Underground Railroad and the anti-slavery movement in Portland. The trail was officially established on November 9, 2006.
Barbershop of James E. Eastman
129 Congress Street
Conductor on the Underground Railroad
Entrepreneur
Eastman (1821-1880) was barber, second hand clothing dealer, mariner and hack driver. He was also a financial supporter of the Abyssinian meeting house and school.
He owned and operated several barbershops with his four sons, including one on this site. Barbershops were important centers of communication in the anti-slavery movement and aided freedom seekers in changing their appearance.
The walking trail map has not been updated to include the three most recent additions, which include this one.