Norman Barnard

Norman R. Barnard (January 25, 1914-July 15, 1998), an Oakland County, Michigan probate judge from 1963-1988, was best known for his heavy influence in the creation and development of the city of Troy, Michigan. His monetary and social contributions are respected and remembered by the city's residents.

Barnard's biggest accomplishment is, perhaps, his key role in Troy's shift from a township to a city. He was the last township supervisor and, in 1955, led the way in getting citizens to sign a petition supporting incorporation and got them to the Oakland County Clerk before Royal Oak could file another request for annexation.

The Niles-Barnard House is incredibly significant to the history of Troy. Johnson Niles, one of the founding fathers of Troy, originally built the house in 1837. The Barnard family got possession of the house in 1941. In 1955, the Niles-Barnard house was home to many key meetings and discussions with the men - including Barnard - whose goal it was to make Troy a city. Barnard and his wife, Harriet, were married in front of the house in 1941.^[1]

Barnard's wife, Harriet Barnard, recently donated the home to the city on the condition that it would be moved to the Troy Historical Society. In addition to this, Harriet also donated $10,000 to the Troy Heritage Campaign.

The late Barnard is remembered for his key role in the city's inception and an elementary school in his namesake. His and his wife's philanthropic work continues to effect the city today.

References

1. ^ http://www.troyhistory.org/VPCurrent.pdf

• Troy: A City from the Corners

Persondata
Name	Barnard, Norman
Alternative names
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Date of birth	1914
Place of birth
Date of death	1998
Place of death