John Goddard II

American cabinetmaker

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June 29, 2026

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John Goddard II was an American cabinetmaker, part of the renowned Goddard-Townsend family of Newport, Rhode Island. This family, along with the Townsends, produced some of the finest furniture in 18th-century America. They were known for their distinctive furniture designs in the Queen Anne and Chippendale styles, often featuring unique shell carvings and innovative surface treatments.12

John Goddard II, grandson of the prominent cabinetmaker John Goddard, continued the family tradition. While his grandfather is credited with originating the blockfront furniture style, John Goddard II and his father, Stephen Goddard, adapted to newer English styles like Hepplewhite and Sheraton, though their work maintained a distinct adaptive quality.1

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Goddard Family
Stephen Goddard’s son, John Goddard II (1789–1843), was also a cabinetmaker. All were survived by Thomas, who remained virtually a relic of the bygone Colonial era and whom his obituarist in the Newport Mercury honoured as one of the century’s most humane and benevolent men.
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Stephen Goddard’s son, John Goddard II (1789–1843), was also a cabinetmaker. All were survived by Thomas, who remained virtually a relic of the bygone Colonial era and whom his obituarist in the Newport Mercury honoured as one of the century’s most humane and benevolent men.
Read More