Dr. Barringer, neurosurgeon and historian, discusses experiences as a doctor; early years in Emden, Illinois; his father, a country doctor; education in Lincoln, Illinois and at the University of Illinois; medical training in Chicago; his work as a volunteer for the "Doctors for Britain Project"; conditions in England during WWII; training for neurosurgery; and returning to practice in Springfield following the war. He discusses changes in health care over the years and the qualities of good doctors. He also discusses his interest in history: his involvement with the Abraham Lincoln Association and the Sangamon County Historical Society; the restoration of the Governor's Mansion, Elijah Iles House, Freeman-Hughes House, and the Dana Thomas House; and his books: Historic Homes of Springfield, Oak Ridge Cemetery, and Historic Tour of Springfield; papers and research projects: The History of Memorial Medical Center, Florence Nightingale, and The Spring Creek Anthology.

7 tapes, 570 min., 2 vols., 169 pp. Interview by Elaine Birtch, 1984 OPEN See collateral file: interviewer's notes and correspondence pertaining to interview