University of Virginia Library

APPOINTMENT OF PROFESSOR BARR

Mr. Talbott read a letter from Professor Wright of the School of Economics stating that
Professor Stringfellow Barr, recently appointed to the Political Science faculty, was listed as a
member of several communist front organizations. Mr. Wright inquired if the Board had investigated
Mr. Barr's status at the time of his appointment

Mr. Gay suggested that inquiry be made of Mr. Wright as to whether he wished to bring
charges before the Board that Professor Barr is a communist. A copy of Professor Wright's letter
to the Board of June, 1951, was read, in which Professor Wright states: "Dr. Barr is not in my
opinion, consciously or in intent a communist." However, he also states: ". . . Dr. Barr has been
described both in books and on the radio as having been a member of at least two communist front
organizations. Certainly, it would seem, these charges deserve at least some investigation."

Whereupon a resolution was adopted requesting the Rector to write Mr. Wright and call
attention to Mr. Wright's letter to the Board of June, 1951, and inquire of Professor Wright if he
wished to bring charges before the Board that Mr. Barr is a communist.