Joseph Thompson was a real-estate investor, hotel owner, and doctor who played a significant role in the development of Atlanta, Georgia. Born on September 29, 1797 in South Carolina, he was raised by Pennsylvania-born parents who instilled in him a strong work ethic and ambition.
As a young man, Thompson pursued a career in medicine and eventually became a respected doctor in the town of Decatur, Georgia. In 1827, he married Mary Ann Tomlinson Young, a union that would prove to be a lasting and influential partnership.
Thompson's entrepreneurial spirit led him to invest in real estate, and he quickly became one of the most prominent settlers in Atlanta. He acquired several properties in the city and eventually became the owner of the Atlanta Hotel, a popular establishment in the years leading up to the Civil War.
Aside from his business ventures, Thompson also made significant contributions to the field of education. He was appointed as the president of Atlanta's Medical College, where he worked tirelessly to improve medical education and training in the region.
Thompson's legacy in Atlanta is further cemented by his family ties to the city. His daughter, Mary Jane, married Richard Peters, one of the founders of Atlanta. Their union played a crucial role in the city's development and growth.
Tragedy struck during the Civil War when the Atlanta Hotel was destroyed in the 1864 Battle of Atlanta. The hotel, which had been a hub of social and political activity in the city, fell victim to the ravages of war.
One of the most notable events to occur at the Atlanta Hotel was the non-fatal stabbing of Alexander Stephens, who would later become the Vice President of the Confederate States of America. The incident served as a stark reminder of the turbulent times in which Thompson lived.
Joseph Thompson's life was a testament to hard work, entrepreneurship, and dedication to his community. His contributions to Atlanta, both in business and education, continue to be remembered and celebrated to this day.