Robert A. Barnes
1808–1892
Grocer, Philanthrope

Barnes was born in Washington, D.C. and came to St. Louis in 1830 where he began his career in the grocery business. He established Barnes Hospital where, upon his death, he willed one million dollars for the establishment of a “hospital for the needy.” This hospital was to be administered by three layman of the Southern Methodist Church, although neither he nor his wife belonged to that denomination.