Tracing the Ink: A Journey Through the Oldest Tattoo Parlors and Pioneers of Tattooing in the United States
Tattooing, once a fringe art form, has now become an integral part of modern self-expression. The journey of tattooing in the United States is rich and storied, shaped by pioneers who pushed boundaries and dedicated their lives to mastering and evolving the craft. Join us as we dive into the history of tattooing in America, exploring iconic tattoo parlors, revolutionary artists, and pivotal moments that defined this vibrant industry.
Old Town Ink: Where American Tattooing Began
The oldest tattoo parlor in the U.S., Old Town Ink in New York City, was established in 1875. This shop is often credited as one of the first professional tattoo parlors in the country, setting a foundation for American tattoo culture. Old Town Ink was founded by Samuel O’Reilly, a figure of profound influence in tattoo history.
In 1891, O’Reilly forever changed the industry by patenting the first electric tattoo machine, an invention inspired by Thomas Edison’s autographic printing pen. This breakthrough enabled tattoo artists to work faster and more efficiently, paving the way for the tattoo boom that would come in the following decades.
Other Historic Shops: Avenue Tattoo and Fallen Angel Tattoo
While Old Town Ink claims the title of the oldest, other shops have also left their mark on American tattooing history. Notable among them are Avenue Tattoo in New York and Fallen Angel Tattoo in Los Angeles, which opened their doors in the early 1900s. These establishments helped sustain the art of tattooing through both highs and lows, including times when tattooing was frowned upon by mainstream society.
New York, often seen as the birthplace of modern tattooing, faced a major setback when tattooing was banned from 1961 to 1997. Despite this long prohibition, the city’s legacy in tattoo art remained strong, and tattoo culture resurfaced with vigor when the ban was lifted.
Outer Limits Tattoo: America’s Oldest Continuously Operating Tattoo Shop
If you’re looking for the oldest tattoo parlor still in operation, head to Outer Limits Tattoo in Long Beach, California. Founded in 1927, Outer Limits is not only the longest-running tattoo shop in the United States but also the second oldest in the world. This historic establishment has seen generations of tattoo artists come and go, each leaving their unique mark on the walls of the shop. The shop’s current owner, Kari Barba, is dedicated to preserving its rich legacy while pushing the boundaries of modern tattoo artistry.
Located in what was once Long Beach’s lively Pike district—a historic area with waterfront views, piers, and boardwalks—Outer Limits remains a living museum of tattoo history. The shop’s walls, if they could speak, would tell stories of famous artists, countless customers, and nearly a century of tattoo evolution.
Samuel F. O’Reilly: The Father of Electric Tattooing
The name Samuel F. O’Reilly is synonymous with innovation in the tattoo industry. Born in Waterbury, Connecticut, to Irish immigrant parents, O’Reilly started tattooing in New York in the mid-1880s, possibly learning the craft under the mentorship of Martin Hildebrandt, another early tattoo pioneer. His invention of the electric tattoo machine transformed the craft and laid the groundwork for the high-speed machines we see today.
Samuel F. O’Reilly
Before O’Reilly patented his machine, tattoo artists experimented with makeshift tools and modified devices, including dental equipment, to create tattoos. O’Reilly’s first prototype was a modified dental plugger that he used to tattoo performers for dime museums and exhibitions. His innovative approach ultimately led to his 1891 patent, which marked the official beginning of electric tattooing.
O’Reilly’s legacy extended beyond his patent. His Bowery shop in New York became a hotspot for tattoo enthusiasts and artists alike. It was there that he mentored **Charles Wagner**, who would go on to carry forward O’Reilly’s influence after his untimely death in 1909.
1976: The First World Tattoo Convention and the Rise of Tattoo Culture
In 1976, tattoo artists and fans from around the world gathered for the First World Convention of Tattoos and Fans in Houston, Texas. This landmark event brought the tattoo community together, offering a rare opportunity for artists and enthusiasts to connect, share techniques, and celebrate their craft.
Photographer Billy Tinney captured this historic gathering, documenting the vibrant personalities and iconic artists who attended, including Lyle Tuttle, Marty Holcomb, and Vyvyn Lazonga. His book, You Had to Be There: Photos from the First World Convention, is a treasure trove of images and memorabilia, preserving the spirit of an event that shaped modern tattoo culture.
Lyle Tuttle Tattoo Artist – Photo by By Diana Kohrs
The convention marked a turning point for tattooing in the United States, helping it transition from the fringes of society to a celebrated art form. Over time, tattoo conventions have become an essential part of the industry, allowing artists to share their work, learn from one another, and inspire new generations of tattoo lovers.
The Legacy Lives On
The American tattoo industry has evolved dramatically since the days of Samuel O’Reilly and Old Town Ink. Today, tattoos are everywhere, embraced by people from all walks of life. Historic tattoo shops like Outer Limits Tattoo continue to thrive, preserving the stories of the past while inspiring future artists to innovate and experiment.
As we look back on the pioneers of tattooing and the shops that shaped the industry, we gain a deeper appreciation for the art form. These artists, tools, and shops are more than just pieces of tattoo history; they are symbols of resilience, creativity, and the timeless human desire for self-expression.
Whether you’re a tattoo enthusiast or a history buff, the story of tattooing in America is a testament to the enduring power of art. So the next time you step into a tattoo shop, remember that you’re part of a legacy that stretches back over a century—a living, breathing history etched into the skin of countless Americans.
Check out the Story of our ink and Billy Baca and ElSando, our Marcado 28 tattoo artists.
