Henry Ebenezer Barff

Barff was born on 9 July 1857 on Tahaa Island within the Society Islands. He was the youngest son of Rev. John Barff, a missionary of the London Missionary Society, and Amelia Banes, his mother.^[1][3] In 1865, he and his family moved to Sydney. Later, Barff was educated at Camden College before attending the University of Sydney, where he graduated with honors in mathematics.^[4][5]

Barff joined the University of Sydney in 1879 as an assistant examiner and acting lecturer in mathematics.^[1][3] In 1882, he became the university's registrar and librarian.^[4][5] In 1914, he also served as a university warden. Barff's dedication to his work made him a popular and respected figure at the University.^[4] During his tenure, the university grew from a single faculty with few students to ten faculties and over 3,000 students.^[4] He was instrumental in the reorganization of the Sydney University Union and authored a historical account of the university published in 1902.^[4]

In 1923, Barff was appointed a Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George (C.M.G.). He served in the Senate between 1924-1925.^[4]

Barff worked as the university's registrar and librarian until his retirement in 1924.^[4]

Barff was known to have enjoyed playing golf, serving as a member of the Royal Sydney Golf and University clubs.^[4] Barff married Jane Foss in 1899, an advocate for women’s education.^[4][6]

His portrait by John Longstaff is held by the University of Sydney.^[4]