John Richard Barret

John Richard Barret (August 21, 1825 – November 2, 1903) was a U.S. Representative from Missouri.

John R. Barret (Missouri Congressman)

Born in Greensburg, Kentucky, Barret attended the common schools and then went to Centre College in Danville, Kentucky. He moved to St. Louis, Missouri in 1839 and graduated from St. Louis University in 1843. He thereafter studied and then practiced law.

Barret was elected to the State house of representatives in 1852 and served four terms. He became identified with the St. Louis Agricultural Society and organized its exhibitions. After defeating the incumbent Francis P. Blair, Jr. in 1858, he presented his credentials as a Democratic member-elect to the 36th Congress. He served from March 4, 1859 to June 8, 1860, when he was succeeded by Blair, who had contested the election.

In a special election against Blair, Barret was subsequently sent again to the same Congress to fill the vacancy caused by Blair's resignation on June 25. Barret then served from December 3, 1860 to March 4, 1861. Blair successfully ran against him in the general election in 1860 for a seat in the 37th Congress. Barret moved to New York City and engaged in numerous occupations, eventually dying there on November 2, 1903. He was interred in Cave Hill Cemetery, Louisville, Kentucky.