Biography of George W. Barker
George W. Barker, born on November 11, 1866, in Illinois, became a renowned auctioneer in Ottawa County, Kansas. His father, Noble Barker, was a Civil War veteran and farmer. George attended local schools and briefly worked in Montana before returning to farm in Ottawa County. Over 25 years, he established a successful auctioneering career and engaged in various business ventures, including roles in the Minneapolis Oil Company and Farmers Mutual Telephone Association. Married to Ida E. Campbell, they had two daughters; Barker remained active in local politics and fraternal organizations.