In 1915, Franklin Beauty School was founded by Madam N.A. Franklin. Her passion for beauty began through educating African American women on the proper treatment of haircare. She was one of the first of African American Women to manufacture hair care products for women of color. Madam Franklin taught the local women by illustrating her own beauty literature, through her programs which were held on W. Dallas St. in Houston, Texas. After her demise, Madam Franklin's daughter Abby and husband, J.H. Jemison took ownership of the business. In 1935, J.H. Jemison successfully established Franklin Beauty School as one of the first licensed beauty schools in the state of Texas. At that time, the school was held in the Pilgrim Building, which is now the DoubleTree Hotel in downtown Houston. J.H. Jemison paved his way in the city of Houston by serving the community, alongside Quintin Meece at the South Central YMCA, while building relationships with other leaders such as Mr. Mack Hannah. Jemison boosted Houston's economy by creating jobs for many African Americans at a time when they had very minute resources for work. In 1969, J.H. Jemison was appointed the first African American Texas Cosmetology Commissioner by Governor Dolph Briscoe. As the school gained notoriety, thousands of students flew from surrounding cities eager to study at this great school.
Later, Franklin Beauty School formed two locations, one on Dowling St. and the other near South Park on Holmes Rd. During this period, Ron and Glenda Jemison Sr. became the third generation to operate the family business. For over 35 years, Ron and Glenda worked hard to uphold the family legacy. In the late 1980s, Ron Sr. succeeded his father's position as the Texas Cosmetology Commissioner. Out of Glenda's many accomplishments, she's recently served two terms on the advisory board for the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulations.
In 2013, Franklin Beauty School caught the attention of media proprietor, Oprah Winfrey, who featured them as "Houston Beauty" in a reality TV series that aired on her network, OWN. The show focused on the challenges and obstacles many students endured while earning their cosmetology license with the helpful guidance of "Ms. J", Glenda Jemison.
Franklin Beauty School is now operated by the fourth generational heir, Mr. and Mrs. Ron Jemison Jr. It now has three locations and the curriculum has been expanded by offering barber, eyelash extension and instructor courses in addition to cosmetology. It is a National Accredited School that has produced thousands of beauty pioneers, including beauty mogul, Tina Knowles. On December 8, 2015, the Mayor of Houston, Annise Parker will recognize Franklin Beauty School during a special presentation that will proclaim December 8th as Franklin Beauty School Day. This legendary school has made a significant impact in the African American culture. It has stamped its way in history for revolutionizing the beauty industry. Many of their students have become entrepreneurs in the beauty industry. Franklin will continue to provide opportunities for their students, for most are now salon owners, product manufacturers, instructors and licensed hair and barber stylists. A Century With Franklin will celebrate 100 years of history by recognizing Franklin graduates and those who've made significant contributions to the family owned business. To learn more of this event, please visit www.ACenturyWithFranklin.eventbrite.com.
For more information on Franklin Beauty School, please visit www.FranklinBeautySchool.com.
Media Contact
Arnaecia Alridge
arnaecia@stunningempires.com
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