George Anthony Barber

George Anthony Barber (1802 – 20 October 1874) was an English born teacher who emigrated Canada in 1826. He is known as the father of Canadian cricket.

Barber taught in York for three years and went to the Upper Canada College staff when it first opened in 1829. There he was also involved in the finances and a scandal that occurred in 1839. The scandal, details of which are hazy, also involved Bishop John Strachan and caused Barbers dismissal.

At about this time, Barber had started a public accounting business which he continued throughout his life. He became auditor for the city of Toronto soon after Upper Canada College and also edited the Toronto Herald until its demise.

In 1844, he became the first superintendent of schools for Toronto and was involved with the board of education in some capacity until his death. He was part of the period of critical growth for this community resource.

An avid sportsman, his particular interest in cricket led to some popularity of the sport in Canada and the establishment of the Toronto Cricket Club in 1827.

External links

• Biography at the Dictionary of Canadian Biography Online