Jimmie I. Barber * served the Greensboro City Council for twelve years, from 1969- 1981, which, at the time made him the longest serving black member in Greensboro. Barber Park, located between East Gate City Boulevard and Florida Street, was dedicated, renamed Barber Park, in 1989. It had first been known as Southeast Park.
The sculptor of the above bust of Mr. Barber is Maria J. Kirby-Smith who finished she sculpture in 1990. The position of the extended hand, ready for a handshakes, suggests community engagement, the gesture of a gentleman; something that likely helped keep Mr. Barber in office for so many years. According to the above plaque, he was the "people's man" who "belonged to all the people." Contributions to this bronze bust were made by the Greensboro Jaycees, Las Amigas, and The City of Greensboro. The monument is located near the sports building at the bottom of the hill. With the landscaping around it, it is easier to find while walking or on a bicycle. Challenge yourself to find it the next time you are at Barber Park.
Happy Tuesday!
- See Mr. Barber's photo, here.
- Learn more about Greensboro's parks in this Our State Magazine article from June 2022.
That is a wonderful bust!
Posted by: William Kendall | Wednesday, May 17, 2023 at 03:42 PM