James G. Barnwell 1835-1919

Portrait painted by Tully Filmus of the 143rd Class has hung in the library since February 1924. James G. Barnwell(1833-1919)served as librarian of the Library Company of Philadelphia, founded by Benjamin Franklin; teacher, school principal and founder of the Mary Gaston Barnwell Foundation – inducted to Hall of Fame 2015. Barnwell graduated from Central High School in the 16th class and his master in Fine Art from his Alma Mater. From 1863-1887 he acted as the Director of the Mercantile Library Company of Philadelphia. From 1884-1886 he was the librarian at UPenn.