10/31/2026
In 1888, a California barber made political history—and most people have never heard his name! His name was Edward P. Duplex.
He lived in Wheatland, a small agricultural town in Northern California's Yuba County.
Duplex was an African American businessman who operated a barbershop on Main Street. But his story went far beyond cutting hair and running a business.
In 1888, something extraordinary happened. The residents of Wheatland elected him mayor.
According to the city's official history, Duplex became the first African American elected mayor of a city in the western United States.
Think about that.
This happened in the 19th century, when racial discrimination remained deeply entrenched throughout American society. Yet in this small California community, a Black businessman achieved a remarkable political milestone.
And here's another fascinating detail. The City of Wheatland reports that his historic barbershop still stands on Main Street.
An ordinary-looking building connected to an extraordinary chapter of California history.
Edward P. Duplex deserves to be remembered as one of the state's overlooked political pioneers.
Before today, had you ever heard of California's pioneering Black mayor?
