John Goddard

Background

He was born, on January 20, 1724 in Dartmouth, Massachussets, the son of Daniel Goddard, a shipwright.

Education

John learned the craft from his father-in-law who supposed to have been the master.

Career

Goddard's work was done in Newport, R. I. , famous as a town of wealth. Goddard's fame is based on his exquisite secretary desks.

He also made large and small tables as well as clockcase hoods and chairs.

His desks had sufficient individuality to make them a type by themselves and for a long time, until investigation showed that they were made by one person, they were known as "Rhode Island desks. " Goddard was a follower of Chippendale, and much of his work was according to the Queen Anne tradition.

He was partial to mahogany and bonnet-top broken pediments.

His block-front treatment was applied not only to secretaries but also to knee-hole desks and chests (highboys and lowboys). In honesty and simplicity of design and appropriate use of material Goddard's work is outstanding in furniture craftsmanship.

Achievements

• John Goddard was widely recognized as one of early America’s most talented cabinet-makers and his creations were sought-after by the port city’s most well-to-do merchants.

Connections

In 1746 he married Hannah Townsend, daughter of Job Townsend.

Father:

Daniel Goddard

Spouse:

Hannah Townsend