MEAFORD EXPRESS (1929) - In the death on Tuesday morning at Guelph, of Thomas Barber, the last member of a family that has been prominently identified with Meaford affairs nearly since the time there was any Meaford, has passed on. He was the last of three generations of Barbers in Meaford history, all of whom left their impress on the town and took a big part in its struggles and shared unselfishly in its successes.
   The death of Mr. Barber was a shock to every resident of the town because no citizen commanded more respect for rightness of character and sterling honesty. He had been ill but a short time. Mr. Barber was in his 53rd year. Mr. Barber's father died three years ago, on April 21, 1926, his brother George last year and another brother Phillip, some years ago. Mrs. Barber, mother of the deceased, died in 1921.
   The grandfather came to Meaford in 1847 from Horsham, Sussex, England, eighty-two years ago. His son Charles, established the Georgian Foundry in 1867, the year of Confederation, and in the Barber family it has continued ever since. The big reputation of the foundry was made through the manufacture of a turbine which became famous throughout this country. Mr. Thos. Barber perfected a high speed wheel, which added to the reputation of the product of the firm. Mr. Barber was educated at Meaford schools and the School of Science, University of Toronto from which he graduated with the degree of B.A. Sc. in civil engineering. He specialized in hydraulic work and was an authority on such matters.
   Mr. Barber, always, like his father, took a keen interest in public affairs although he was never a member of the town council. He was a member of the High School Board, Board of Trade and other organizations.
   In politics Mr. Barber was a Liberal
   Mr. Barber was a hard worker and ready at all times to help others. His advice was ready, but he was obtrusive. He had several hobbies, among them being floriculture.
   Mr. Barber is survived by his wife formerly Miss Hall, to them will go the sympathy of friends. The funeral which was private, took place this (Thursday) afternoon, (May 2nd) to Lakeview Cemetery.
   The pallbearers included the members of the High School Board: Messrs. G.G. Albery, J.W. Horsley, John Jay, Jas. L. Chapman, Dr. C.M. Culbertson and Dr. H.N. Harman. The honorary pallbearers were: Messrs. E.S. Cleland, A.A. Dundas, T.T. Paul, T.R. Moore, E.N. Cooper, and Norman Cameron, Owen Sound.
   The flag on the High School stood at half-mast on Thursday afternoon, and a half holiday was observed as a tribute of regard to the late Thomas Barber, a member of the Trustee Board.