Joseph "Joe" Barker (ca. 1806– August 2, 1862) was an American public and political figure of the 1800s remembered to this day for his rash, uncompromising temper, and violent tirades against corruption, often drawing large crowds, landing him in prison, and paving way for his term in office as the 17th mayor of Pittsburgh. Early years The origins of Joe Barker are shrouded in mystery: nothing is known of his early years, background, or even his date of birth, as evident by its absence on his epitaph. Appearance Barker's appearance, in contrast to what was common of the era, was described as always cleanly shaven and well-dressed in nearly all black attire. It was said he was never to be seen without a neckcloth, black stovepipe hat, and long black cape. 1850 Census Important, although sparse, details are provided in the information collected by the Census of 1850. Barker is listed therein as 44 years old and living in Pittsburgh's Fifth Ward with his Irish-born wife Jane Holmes and three children, Charles Augustus, Eliza, and David. His birthplace is described as being in "Pennsylvania", and his occupation is given as "Mayor". Contrary to propaganda spread by his enemies, and even incorrectly referenced in articles to this day, Barker was far from illiterate, as clearly indicated on the 1850 census; he was instead described as having a silver tongue. As a perhaps sardonic nod to his opposition, Barker chose to leave the "sane" category on the census unchecked. Arrest, Trial, Imprisonment, and Election Joe Barker gained vast public attention and notoriety as a street preacher of the violent class, vehemently attacking political corruption. In November 1849, a riot broke out following one of Barker's more extreme tirades in The Diamond—present day Market Square, Mayor John Herron had him arrested on three counts: Inciting a riot Obstructing traffic Using lewd and indecent language in the delivery of incendiary threats TRIAL OF THE STREET PREACHERS NOVEMBER 5, 1850 The Commonwealth v. Joseph Barker, Hugh Kirkland, and John Sharpe The defining trial of Barker's life began on Monday, November 5, 1850, and was presided over by the President Judge, Benjamin Patton, with Samuel Jones and William Kerr serving as associate judges. H.S. Magraw, Esq. and James K. Kennedy prosecuted the case. The defense for Barker and Sharpe included a Mr. Eyster, as well as Jasper E. Bradley, of Franklin County. Hugh Kirkland stated he