William Higgs Barker facts for kids
William Higgs Barker (born in 1744, died in 1815) was an English scholar. He was known for studying the Hebrew language. People who study Hebrew are sometimes called Hebraists.
Life Story
William Higgs Barker came from the same family as another Hebrew scholar, Samuel Barker. His father, George Barker, was a tailor in London.
When William was twelve years old, in 1756, he started studying at St. Paul's School, London. This was a special school. Later, in 1761, he went to Trinity College, Cambridge. He earned his first university degree, a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), in 1765. He also became a fellow at Dulwich College in Surrey. A "fellow" is a senior member of a college. He also became a priest.
In 1767, William Higgs Barker became the head teacher, or "master," of Queen Elizabeth's Grammar School in Carmarthen. He held this job for the rest of his life. From 1793, he was also the rector (a type of priest) of a church in Bleddfa.
His Books
William Higgs Barker wrote two important books to help people learn Hebrew.
In 1774, he published a book called 'Grammar of the Hebrew Language adapted to the use of schools, with Biblical examples.’ This book was a grammar guide for students.
Later, in 1812, he released a 'Hebrew and English Lexicon.’ A lexicon is like a dictionary. This book helped people understand Hebrew words by giving their English meanings.
