A short biography from "THE CRAWFORD FAMILY" published by the American Genealogical Research Institute, Arlington VA in 1973. Joel Crawford (15 Jun 1783 - 5 Apr 1858): representative from GA. Born in Columbia Co GA where he completed preparatory studies, then studied law at Litchfield law School. Admitted to bar and began practice in Sparta in 1808. In 1814 he was elected to the state house of representatives, serving until 1817, then elected as a Democrat to the 15th and 16th Congresses, served until 1821. In 1828 and 1831 he ran unsuccessfully for governor. In 1837, he was elected state commissioner to locate and construct the Western and Atlantic Railroad. he died in Blakely GA. Hope Joel belongs to somebody! Debra Claussen