The field of historic preservation has undergone· extreme changes in recent years. Only in the last few years have schools, businesses, and the public been interested in preserving historic sites. Prior to this involvement, historic preservation was accomplished by a few individuals and patriotic groups. Since the field is relatively new, little has been researched and written regarding the early efforts of preservation. One man who emerged as a leader in the preservation movement in Oregon, for over thirty years, was Burt Brown Barker. This thesis, through research of the files associated with five different preservation projects, examines the role Barker played. In each case, an exhaustive search was made of all the files and scrapbooks housed at each institution. In addition, using contemporary newspaper-accounts, Barker's unpublished autobiography, and several books relating to historic preservation, a careful examination of Barker's role can be made. An analysis of the research shows that the role Barker played in historic preservation was a significant one. His contributions to the preservation of historic pioneer sites in Oregon remains a lasting memorial to the determination of this man. Though his name is relatively unknown, this thesis shows that he deserves to be recognized and remembered for his efforts.