A Cut Above: The Legacy of Stratford Barbershops of 126 Downie Street

At Man Fades, we are proud to be the newest chapter in a long and storied history of barbering right here at 126 Downie Street. For more than six decades, this address has been a cornerstone for traditional and modern cuts in Stratford.

The Henry’s Era (1960–2021)

The story begins with Henry’s Barber Shop, which first opened its doors in 1960. Founded by Henry Willemsen, the shop quickly became a Stratford institution. Henry’s two sons, Matthew and Frank, joined the family business, carrying on the traditions of classic barbering for decades.

For 61 years, Henry’s Barber Shop was a beloved hub in the downtown core, witnessing countless changes in styles, trends, and the city itself. In March 2021, the Willemsen brothers retired, officially concluding the incredible six-decade-long run of Henry’s Barber Shop.

The Torch is Passed: Our History

Following the Willemsen family’s retirement, the shop continued its life as a space dedicated to men’s grooming under the name Dick’s Barber Shop.

This transition is where our own story truly begins. The owner of Man Fadez didn’t just inherit the space; he worked and trained for several years under the proprietor of Dick’s Barber Shop, quickly becoming a trusted right-hand man. This period allowed him to master the art of the trade and the business of running a respected local shop.

When the opportunity arose, our owner proudly took over the reins of the business. By founding Man Fadez, he honoured the skills, dedication, and community focus he learned, while putting his own stamp on the space with a specialty in modern fading techniques and high-quality grooming.

Today, as Man Fadez, we seamlessly blend that deep, inherited tradition with modern expertise, ensuring that 126 Downie Street remains the place to go for a sharp look in Stratford. We invite you to come in, sit down, and be a part of the next era of this historic location!