James Nelson Barker

Please note that the content of this book primarily consists of articles available from Wikipedia or other free sources online. James Nelson Barker (June 17, 1784 - March 9, 1858) was an American soldier, playwright, and politician. He rose to major in the army during the War of 1812, wrote ten plays, and served as mayor of Philadelphia. Barker was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the son of John Barker, who also served as a mayor of the city. At the onset of the War of 1812, he was appointed captain of artillery, and in 1813 he commanded Fort Mifflin. He raised two companies of artillery and marched with them to the Canadian border. In 1814, he was severely wounded in a duel. When peace returned in 1814, he was assistant adjutant-general of the 4th military district, with the rank of major, till 1817. He then entered civil life, and was chosen alderman.