Dr. Philip L. Barber

Calvary Cemetery
Section 4, Block 4, Lot 134, Space NW
(1858-1925)

Dr. Barber was born in the town of Winchester, Virginia in 1858, prior to the Civil War. When he was a young boy, his parents relocated the family to Williamsport, Pennsylvania. In Williamsport, he received a public school education. Upon completing school, he enrolled in Storer College, a historically black institution that was located in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia. He graduated from Storer in 1876. In the spring of 1879, he entered the Medical Department of Howard University, from which he graduated in 1883.

He moved to Norfolk in 1885 and established a medical practice which quickly thrived. His medical career culminated in his election as Dean of Negro Physicians of Norfolk. Dr. Barber was also an active member of Norfolk’s African-American community. He was the first president of Norfolk’s Y.M.C.A. In addition, he served as vice-president of the Norfolk Home Building and Loan Association, Norfolk’s first black financial institution. He was married to Flora Stanton in 1886. They had one adopted daughter, Alma Barber Ross.

Claimed By Death
New Journal and Guide (1921-2003); Oct 17, 1925;
ProQuest Historical Newspapers Norfolk Journal and Guide (1921-2003)
pg. 0_1

Biographical information provided by Norfolk Bureau of Cemeteries.

Visitor Information

Visitor Hours: Sunrise to Sunset

Office hours: Monday to Friday 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM
Saturday 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM

Free parking inside cemetery.

Admission Cost: Free

Address: 1600 St. Julian Ave., Norfolk, VA 23504

Official web site for more information: www.norfolk.gov/cemeteries

Norfolk Society for Cemetery Conservation Web Site: