W. C. GOODMAN, retired farmer; P. O. Paris; among the time-honored citizens and pioneer business men of this precinct, is Willis C. Goodman, who was born in Albemarle County, Va, Feb. 2, 1799, and emigrated to this county in the year 1817, Nov. 10, with his father, Nathan Goodman, who settled near Paris. He was born in same county and State, in the year 1768. His wife was Mildred Clarkson, daughter of Manoah Clarkson. The grandfather of W. C. was Charles Woodman, a native of Hanover Co., Virginia; his ancestors came from England, as did the Clarkson's, making their first settlement on the eastern shore of Virginia. To Nathan Woodman were born ten children, eight sons and two daughters: Roland H., Willis C., Alexander G., Feilden F., Ansalem, Virginia, Mary, Nathan, William and Manoah, all of whom, except Roland, came to Kentucky--he remained in Virginia. At the time Nathan Goodman came to this precinct he purchased a small farm; his "property" was mostly in negroes, of which he brought with him quite a number. He died of cancer in 1838. W. C., early in life, turned his attention to stock trading, which he followed for several years, dealing in mules, horses, cattle and hogs; his operations being confined not alone to this locality, but extended through several of the adjoining States. In the early part of his trading career, he made his father's house his home, until February, 1835, when he wedded Sarah A. Garth, daughter of Jesse and Betsey (Brown) Garth, both of whom were natives of. Albemarle Co. Virginia. In 1831, Mr. Goodman purchased the farm he now owns, locating on the same, the following year, and that since made this his constant residence. In his business relations Mr. Goodman has been successful. His farm of 600 acres he has since divided, having now 300 acres. Is now nearly eighty-two years of age, and is in the enjoyment of his quiet home, having a good residence on a beautiful site. Six children have honored his marriage, of whom are Elizabeth M., who married Green Clay; Willis, Mary, wife, of Judge Matt. Turney; Lewis G., John C. and Sarah. Mr. Goodman's brothers nearly all settled in Missouri, except Feilden, who located in Fleming county, Virginia; married Joseph Watkins and located in same State with her brother. Mary became the wife of Morris M. Gass, and located in Bourbon County; Manoah was killed in Paris.
