Barrett H. (Barrett Harper) Clark

Born in Toronto on August 26, 1890, Barrett Harper Clark became a notable writer, editor, translator, and theater critic whose work centered on modern drama. Archival and reference sources describe him as an important presence in American theater for much of the first half of the 20th century.

He studied at the University of Chicago and also spent time in Paris, where he studied under Romain Rolland. Early in his career he worked with a touring company, and later his papers and archival records connect him with Samuel French, where he was active as an editor and correspondent with playwrights, actors, and other literary figures.

Clark is especially remembered for helping bring French drama into English and for writing books on theater, including studies of modern drama and a book on Eugene O'Neill. He died on August 5, 1953. His career left behind a broad paper trail of translations, criticism, editorial work, and correspondence that shows how deeply involved he was in the theatrical life of his time.