Background
He was the son of Robert Morris Goodwin (1796–1861) and Elizabeth Ann (Taylor) Goodwin (1802–1882).
He was the son of Robert Morris Goodwin (1796–1861) and Elizabeth Ann (Taylor) Goodwin (1802–1882).
He attended private schools in Savannah. In 1852, the family removed to New Brunswick, New Jersey, and Alexander graduated from Rutgers College.
In 1858, he began to study law in the office of Conkling & Throop in Utica, New York, was admitted to the bar in 1859, and practiced in Utica. In 1863, he was appointed as a clerk in the New York Adjutant General"s office. And soon after commissioned as adjutant of the 45th Regiment of the National Guard.
He was Recorder of the City of Utica from 1864 to 1868.
He was Mayor of Utica from 1890 to 1892. And a presidential elector in 1892, voting for Grover Cleveland and Adlai East. Stevenson.
He was a member of the New York State Senate (19th Doctorate) in 1878 and 1879.