PA PAST PLAYERS

William Goodridge
1805 – 1873
York, PA

William Goodridge was born into the institution of slavery and sent to York, PA, in 1860 as an apprentice to a tanner. He was to be enslaved until he turned 21, but his master unexpectedly freed him when he was 16. By 1845, Goodridge had become a wealthy and talented businessman in York. He worked as a barber, a storeowner and in the railroad business.

Goodridge put his wealth to good use by providing aid to the Underground Railroad. After the war, the record shows that he was a successful York businessman and his impact on the community continued.






Contact Mark Beyerle for more information on planning your group tour or call 215-625-7908.