Prior to the Civil War, long hair was the norm for several reasons. First, lots of hair gave a raw look and it was thought to be intimidating. Second, in cold weather it provided some protection. Lastly, lots of hair could provide some protection from wounds to the skull. By the Civil War, it was determined that neatly trimming the hair was more hygienic and fostered cleanliness. Generals began to require it of their soldiers, although clearly not for themselves. Look at portraits of Civil War generals. Barbers often doubled as medics. They had razors for shaving and hair clippers. They used soap for shaving and pomade or hair grease for the hair. Sometimes the barbers were African-Americans which was logical because it was a common occupation on plantations. Some slaves even earned their freedom this way.
https://www.menshairforum.com/talk/Thread-Male-grooming-and-hairstyles-during-the-American-Civil-War
Camp Barber – Library of Congress
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