Ella Barber
Councilwoman District 2

I was born in Hinson, Florida, North of Havana in 1927, and came to Midway in 1930. In the early 1930's I recall standing in line for food and using tokens to receive rations. The old house still stands there today. I was living in that house when I was promoted from 11th to 12th grade at Christmas in 1945 and graduated in 1946, the youngest in a class of seven, with the highest honors in the class

In 1960, I was hired as a social worker. To my knowledge, I was the first black social worker in Gadsden County. After that project ended, I worked as a substitute teacher in Greensboro, Gretna, Northside High, Godby in Tallahassee and Pinepark.

Upon retirement, the principal and superintendent held a farewell program in which I was given an award by Congressman Hatcher for undying dedication and exemplary achievement in service to education in the Georgia schools.

I was elected as a city council member in 1999. I worked hard with Talquin officials to end the illegal franchise fee imposed on citizens by the City of Midway. In June 2004, I received a Proclamation from the City of Midway honoring me for a lifetime of service to the community of Midway and fellow man. I also worked with the County Commissioners branch of the Emergency Food Distribution office and received an award of appreciation for years of service. In February of 2006 I received a plaque from the Gadsden Black Heritage, Culture and Education Organization for dedication to worthy causes and sharing my skills with our communities.

I am also working to compile a historical survey of Midway to highlight its scenic attractions, but I am willing to take on new projects wherever there is a need. One of these projects is the management of the Valdene Family Foundation Funds contributed to purchasing Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners for the citizens of Midway.

I am called a Community Activist. We should all be activists. When I come to the end of my life, I don't want to be thinking about the things I could have don, rather than the things I did. That's why I take action rather than waiting for someone else to do the job, and that's why I cannot stand by when so much needs to be done. I have faith in people and believe that if everyone examined their conscience, we would all become activist, and the world would be a better place.
It is a blessing from God to be able to help my community, and I am thankful to be an instrument to help the people.

Mayor Pro-Term Ella Barber can be contacted at:

(850) 574-2355 (Office)
PO Box 438
Midway, FL 32343