Ernest W. Barrett

Who was Ernest W. Barrett?

Ernest W. Barrett was the chairman of the county commission in Cobb County, Georgia from 1965 to 1984. Barrett was also a former trustee of Kennesaw State University.

One of Cobb’s greatest political leaders, Ernest Barrett, was chair of the county commission for five consecutive terms from 1965 to 1984 and played a central role in making Cobb one of the nation’s most desirable places to live. His administration illustrates the positive impact a county government can have in facilitating social change. Indeed, Cobb’s phenomenal growth in those years stemmed directly from Barrett’s ability to gain support for roads, parks, libraries, schools, water lines and sewers — essential ingredients in generating a high quality of life.

A Cobb County native, Ernest Barrett was born April 29, 1922, on his grandfather’s farm on Chastain Road. At age 20, he married Jackie Knight of Marietta. After serving in the army in World War II, Barrett used the G.I. Bill to learn the laundry business.