Dr. Joseph Barnett Carlton was born December 11, 1822. His parents were James R. Carlton and E. A. Carlton. He attended private schools and was a graduate of the University of Georgia and the Medical College of College. He was a member of the Georgia House from 1852-1856 and the Georgia Senate from 1856 to 1858. During the Civil War, Carlton went to Richmond and offered his services to the wounded soldiers. He served as a surgeon in the Toombs Regiment. After the war he returned to Athens and his general practice. He died February 3, 1881, and is buried at Oconee Hill Cemetery.