Newfoundland War Brides

Mrs. Barrett is the recipient of both the Order of Canada and the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador.
See "Story" link to read a story by Adrian Sudbury about Mrs. Barrett printed in the Hudderfield Daily Examier January 22, 2008.

Barbara Bettine Barrett
C. M., O.NL

Maiden Name: Micklethwaite
From: Huddersfield, Yorkshire
Occupation: Private Secretary
Husband: Arthur RCAF
Date of Marriage:August 12, 1944
Date of Departure: Liverpool, July 12th, 1946
Ships Name: SS Drottningholm, sailed direct to
St. John's, Newfoundland
Settled in: Curling, Gander, Stephenville,
Corner Brook and St. John’s
Children: Helena M. MacLean & John I. F. Barrett

She spearheaded many educational, cultural and social programs for the betterment of young and old alike, but is widely known as the "Matriarch" of Newfoundland theatre. Her nurturing efforts led to the creation of a scatteringof theatre groups across the province and she has assisted in the production of more than a thousand performances. As a direct result of her influence, many budding actors, most of whom are children, have been encouraged and empowered with valuable lifeskills.

Since arriving in Newfoundland and Labrador from England as a war bride in 1946, Barbara Barrett has devoted the past 61 years to volunteering and sharing her expertise in the realm of theatre arts. She is considered by many as the matriarch of Newfoundland and Labrador theatre.

Ms. Barrett’s work is well known throughout the province, and she has participated in the production of more than 1,000 theatrical performances. Her efforts have inspired the creation of various theatre groups and introduced many young Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to the world of theatre. Under her mentorship, countless young artists have learned to build sets, read scripts, display and control emotions and communicate with large groups. As a direct result of her encouragement and influence, many emerging actors have also been empowered with valuable life skills.

Her life-long relationship with theatre has been a driving force in the development of the vibrant acting community this province boasts today. In 2003, in recognition of her dedication, she was made an honourary life member of the Newfoundland and Labrador Drama Society.

As a writer, she has compiled a syllabus on public speaking for Air Cadets; written and illustrated a textbook on drama for the 4-H movement; and was commissioned, in 1985, to write and direct a performance marking the 75th anniversary of Guiding in Canada. She has also published a book entitled, "Theatre – My Other Love Affair."

In addition to her pursuits in the arts community, Ms. Barrett has served the Girl Guide movement as captain of the first Air Ranger Company in the province and as Area Commissioner for Western Newfoundland and Provincial Ranger Advisor. She has also found time to teach English as a second language for the Association for New Canadians.

In 1996, she was invested as a member of the Order of Canada. She has presided at 21 citizenship ceremonies and has administered the Oath of Citizenship to more than 500 new Canadian citizens.