New Poetic Cuts Barbershop owner proud to carry on the tradition of Otto Duncan

Andrew Miller is the owner of Poetic Cuts in High Springs.
Andrew Miller is the owner of Poetic Cuts in High Springs.
Photo courtesy Andrew Miller

Otto Duncan was a trailblazer.

Over 60 years ago, he became the first African-American licensed barber in the area. He served the High Springs community until his death in March. Duncan was 92.

After his passing, the building that housed his barbershop sat empty and the antique barber pole light remained off. But on June 20th, a new generation of master barber will officially reopen the shop that will be called Poetic Cuts.

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Andrew Miller is dedicating his ribbon-cutting ceremony to Duncan.

Miller, 25, said he is excited to run his own business and practice his craft as a barber and hair stylist. Miller was born and raised in High Springs and studied barbering at Bly’s School of Cosmetology and Barbering in Gainesville.

From men’s haircuts, from straight or curly, to women’s cuts as well, Miller said he’s ready to take appointments. His favorite style is a fade taper, but he likes mohawk haircuts and a good pompadour, too.

Miller is a graduate of Santa Fe High School where he was active in several clubs including the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA).

His barbershop is not just for men’s cuts, he said. “I can cut women styles as well,” Miller said and learned on the job working for Great Clips hair salon. The stacked bob style is his specialty for women, he said.

The small shop has two styling chairs and Miller might add staff. He charges $12 for cuts for kids 12 and under and for 13 or older it’s $15.

Otto Duncan

Miller created a vintage black and white portrait of himself for his promotional material and said he likes the old-school look. He is proud to take over Duncan’s space. Miller is looking forward to being his own boss and the “flexibility of the hours and not being confined to a shift.”

Miller celebrated the red, white and blue barber pole light on the building and the historic feel of the building at 25042 US-27. 

“The barber pole has been there for 60 years,” he said. “I’m excited to just take on the new adventure.”

Visit the Poetic Cuts Facebook page for more information: https://www.facebook.com/poeticcuts/

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