The Sign
The metal sign stands at the side of the road on the green at Barking. The religious figure could represent the Bishop of Ely, once owner of Barking Manor. The Lebanon cedar tree represents the cedar trees in the churchyard planted by Rev. Robert Uvedale, Rector from 1699-1723. The other tree could represent Bonny Woods found to the east of the parish, part of the larger Barking Woods a Site of Special Scientific Interest. The plough symbolises the importance of agriculture in the parish. The coat of arms on the post could be the Arms displayed by Geoffrey de Burgo, Bishop of Ely, at the signing of Magna Carta. The sign was designed by Mrs. Herring.

Alternative: the religious man is probably Reverend John Fairfax, the Rector of Needham Market who lived at Fairfax House, originally known as Spalding House but was renamed after Reverend John Fairfax, who lived there until ejected in 1662 and imprisoned for his religious convictions. He was a cousin of General Fairfax who played a key role in the siege of Colchester. Oliver Cromwell visited and stayed at the house. Fairfax House has significant historic interest by its association with an historical figure. There is a Fairfax Gardens in Needham Market nearby. There is a large cedar tree near St Mary's Church at The Rectory.

The Name and Population
The population was 446 at the 2011 census. The village was called Berchingas / -ingis / Berkinges in the Domesday Book. The name means "Berica's people" from Old English.

Other Points of Interest
The church is dedicated to St Mary.