Access is granted in accordance with the
Protocols for the University Archives and Records Center.
PROVENANCE
The George F. Barker Papers were in the possession Dr. Horace G. Richards.
After Dr. Richard's death they were presented by his widow to the University
Archives, with the exception of the text book "Physics: Advanced
Course" which was transferred to Professor T.D. Cope. After Professor
Cope's dath, this was also transferred to the Archives to be retained
with the Barker papers.
ARRANGEMENT
Within each folder, the material is arranged chronologically. Undated
pieces are in the front of the folder.
BIOGRAPHICAL NOTE
George Frederick Barker began his career as a chemist, wrote at least
two textbooks on chemistry, but then his interest shifted to physics.
He knew of telephone, telegraph, and light bulb research. He was aware
of and interested in the calculations of the transit of Venus. His own
special interest was in spectroscopy. He was involved as an "expert"
in court cases and in litigation about patents. He was also active as
a public lecturer. He taught chemistry and later physics at the University
of Pennsylvania, and was connected with the Franklin Institute and a
member of the American Chemical Society.
SCOPE AND CONTENT
In addition to letters, the collection contains Barker's own annotated
copy of "Barker's Physics.