Welcome

This website has been developed to celebrate the legacy of Burton Barr, and build on the biographical research that was initiated by Jack Pfister and Brent Brown.  At this time when bipartisanship is still a rare commodity, it is important to look back at an era in Arizona political history where it thrived.    The research also includes some oral histories that may be of real interest to many people.  Some of these Arizona leaders are no longer with us, and listening to the podcasts of them talking about Burton Barr and his accomplishments is truly fascinating.   So please share your own stories and enjoy the ones we have offered. 

Click HERE to listen.

 

Sharing his story

In October 2014 a celebration of the Barr biography was held at the Burton Barr Central Library.  To watch this entertaining program, with an overview by author Philip Vandermeer, and stories from friends and family, click here.

 


The Book

burton barr bookFrom Arizona's leading Legislative Historian, Professor Phillip VanderMeer comes a Biography of a man who changed the face of Arizona Politics forever.

Burton Barr: Leadership and Transformation of Arizona Politics is a study of Barr’s life and career.

The book examines a fascinating character whose strategies, behavior, and personality demonstrate effective legislative leadership. It also describes a period in which Arizona politics and policy making were pragmatic and centrist, rather than following a strictly ideological approach. Barr was the key person during this era, a man with impressive leadership skills and a focus on effectiveness and outcomes, working at a time and in a place ready for change.

To order the book or get more information about where the author will be speaking about the book click here.

 

The book was launched with a special event in November 2014 with the author and friends of Burt's. To see this entertaining program click here.

 

A study of the right man in the right place at the right time.

~author, Phillip VanderMeer

 

 

Do You Have a Story to Tell?

Please join our effort to gather the full history of Burton Barr's life by sharing your story.