Born in Auburn, Georgia County, Ohio, in 1825, where he: resided until about thirteen years of age: He was thrown upon his own resources when a boy and went to Lorain, where he worked at the carpenters trade. He came to Iowa in the year 1857 settling at Clear Lake. In 1869 he formed a partnership with the late M. Tuttle and they established a general store in this city, but Mr. Goodwin did not move his family to Spencer until 1877. He invested quite heavily in Clay county lands and was at one time one of the largest land owners in the county. Mr. Goodwin was prominently connected with the development and growth of Clay County and was a member of the board of supervisors. During, the war he held the position of deputy United States marshal and in 1891 he represented this district in the lower house of the state legislature. He always took a prominent part in politics and for many years was one of the active leaders of his party in this locality. He was a shrewd businessman and conducted his affairs in such a manner as to acquire considerable property. While living at Lorain Mr. Goodwin was united in marriage to Miss Hannah Elwood. Mr. Goodwin was a member of the Masonic Lodge.