Mr. Goodin

These miniatures depict two of the four Goodin brothers: William, James, John, or Samuel. The relationship of the two men is confirmed by their striking resemblance and the similar gold pin worn by both. The older Mr. Goodin is likely to be William Francis Goodin, the husband of Amanda Elias Goodin, who lived from 1807 to 1867. His career as a banker made it necessary for the family to relocate many times, living in Mississippi, Kentucky, New Orleans, St. Louis, and in Philadelphia, where these miniatures were painted. Conservation of these miniatures was made possible through a generous grant provided by the Smithsonian Women’s Committee.