Hall of Fame
Barker was an outstanding basketball and baseball player for the Rams in 1947-48. He was a leading scorer for the Shepherd "cagers," and an equally talented pitcher for Coach Cletus Lowe's baseball squad. His pitching prowess earned Barker a minor league contract with the Philadelphia Athletics in 1949-50. Barker served three years in the military during the Korean War (1950-53). Harry returned to Shepherd in 1954 and played baseball for the Rams three more years. Former teammate, Ed Strauss, had this to say about Barker, "Harry was a fierce competitor. I remember him as being one of the hardest throwing pitchers I ever played with." Student body president and teammate, Bill Isherwood '59 said, "Harry Barker's ability as a hard throwing right-hander is legendary in the history of Shepherd College baseball." In the fall of 1956, Barker started a career in teaching and coaching that last 38 years. During his 36 years at Charles Town Jr. High School, Barker taught biology, mathematics, and coached boys' basketball. His record of 517 and only 75 losses ranks Harry as the most successful junior high school basketball coach in West Virginia history. Barker was honored for his achievements at the West Virginia State Basketball Tournament in 1996. Mary T. Doakes, former principal at CTJHS, said "Mr. Barker is a gentleman and a friend with high marks, a magnificent personality, and a genuine love for children and the game of basketball." Barker retired rom the Jefferson County School System in 1994.
